The former football coach for The Ohio State University, Earle Bruce, died early Friday morning, ESPN reports.
The daughters of Coach Bruce released the following statement:
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Coach Earle Bruce, early this morning, Friday, April 20. He was a great man, a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, and a respected coach to many. Our family will miss him dearly, but we take solace in the belief that he is in a better place and reunited with his beloved wife, Jean. We thank you for your prayers and good wishes.
His loving daughters: Lynn, Michele, Aimee and Noel
Bruce was the coach for the Buckeyes from 1979 to 1987 and had the impossible task of replacing legendary Buckeyes coach Woody Hayes. He was well-regarded, leading the team to four Big Ten titles and had a 5-3 record in bowl games. A number of his players, such as Jim Lachey, Keith Byars and Pepper Johnson, went onto pro careers.
In 2017, Bruce was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
