Joe Paterno, Dead at 85

Joe Paterno, former head coach of Penn State, has died at the age of 85. In the forty-six years as head coach there the Nittany Lions finished ranked in the top twenty-five, thirty-five times; had five undefeated seasons; and two national titles. He holds the record for being the coach with most wins in his career. Sadly the last of his career was tainted with scandal and he was forced to retire. Given a few more weeks, he would've been forced to by his battle with lung cancer anyways.

“He died as he lived,” the family statement said. “He fought hard until the end, stayed positive, thought only of others and constantly reminded everyone of how blessed his life had been. His ambitions were far reaching, but he never believed he had to leave this Happy Valley to achieve them. He was a man devoted to his family, his university, his players and his community.” Paterno died "with a peaceful mind, comforted by his 'living legacy' of five kids, 17 grandchildren, and hundreds of young men whose lives he changed in more ways than can begin to be counted." They also asked that instead of flowers, people donate to Special Olympics of Pennsylvania or the Penn State-THON.

He was without a doubt, an enduring figure in college football, if not sports in general. His energy, excitement, and love for the game and his players will be missed. Joe Paterno deserves to be remembered for his whole life, not for his small part in the scandal. Hopefully that will be how he is. He one said, "What are coaches? Number one, we're teachers and we're educators. We have the same obligation as all teachers at our institutions, expect we probably have more influence over our young people than anyone other than their families."