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A Tribute to Gene Upshaw

The Raider Nation has lost one of it's own, and feels a deep loss. Our Prayers are with his family.

Gene Upshaw has passed away from complications from pancreatic cancer. He played in three Super Bowls for the Oakland Raiders, winning two of them. He started over 200 consecutive games at left guard. A pillar and the fabric of the winning tradition and greatness of the Oakland Raiders, Upshaw, played for the Silver and Black from 1967-81 earning nearly every accolade as a player of the National Football League.

Being named to the NFL Hall of Fame in 1987, rather than fade into obscurity after his retirement, he worked his way up the ranks of the NFL Players Association until he was named President. His passion for life was evident by his actions as a player and leader, but most important as a father and husband to his family, the paper trail of God's promise for his life is uncovered today by the many tributes from fans and folks that crossed his path in life. Gene's passion was real, In his quest for the promises that dwelled in his heart at a young age.

Gene Upshaws, field of dreams had its beginning, In the sweltering heat of Robstown, Texas, Just west of Corpus Christi, the work ethic and character that would develop at a young age of 7-years, by the hard work of picking cotton, experiencing the ugly side of this countries segregation program, it wasn't one of those things that was discussed much, life was laid out in front of him. He found the world as it was in the 50's and eventually saw it change for the better. The impression left by his parents of education and God, reflects the passion that we all became accustom to as we witnessed his performance as player and a leader in all his accomplishments, his legacy will live forever, engraved in the hearts of the Raider Nation and in Canton Ohio, A players' Man He was a towering lineman on the football field, who now has entered the gates of Heaven, to become the many that dwell with the Lord.

We will miss him, our hearts go out to his wife Terri and sons, along with all the friends he made in his journey in life… Precious in the sight of the Lord Is the death of His godly ones. Psalm 116:15 As we mourn and reflect on the memories we have of Gene Upshaw, it's important to have an understanding  that the Kingdom of Heaven is rejoicing in his presence… until we see you again brother.

Sincerely Yours,
Pastor Mando