Virginia McCaskey earned the respect and admiration of Chicago Bears fans -- because she was one of them

[Dennis Donovan]

Chicago Tribune - Column: Virginia McCaskey earned the respect and admiration of Chicago Bears fans — because she was one of them

By Paul Sullivan | [e-mail] | Chicago Tribune
PUBLISHED: February 6, 2025 at 5:24 PM CST



There’ve been few untouchable owners in Chicago, where passionate fans frequently look for someone to blame when things go wrong, often starting at the top.

But Chicago Bears principal owner Virginia McCaskey, who died Thursday at age 102, was the exception to the rule.

Michael and George McCaskey, two executives in charge of running the Bears during their mother’s long reign, were always subject to the usual criticisms and mocking that go with the job. When you’re making decisions for a franchise that hasn’t enjoyed much success, you have to expect some blowback. Even George Halas, old “Papa Bear” himself, was forced to defend himself and the organization from time to time, especially later in his life.

But Virginia almost always was exempt, escaping the brunt of fans’ barbs no matter how bad things got. Part of her immunity was in deference to her age, and assuredly some fans just couldn’t be nasty to a nice, elderly woman who just happened to own their favorite NFL team.

But Virginia Halas McCaskey always was respected and admired in Chicago and in NFL circles alike. Bears fans and knowledgeable football fans all over mourned her passing Thursday as the last link to the man who started the league.

/snip

[ProfessorGAC]

1. Attended All But One...

...of the 209 games the Bears played the Packers while she was alive.

[milestogo]

2. 102 years!

Good for her.

RIP Virginia