RIP Kaye Cowher

[tube517]

Kaye Cowher passes away from cancer.


http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10204/1075087-100.stm


(Moderators: Move, if necessary)

[steelpride12]

OH my goodness this is so sad! R.I.P Mrs. Cowher and my Prayers and thought's go out to the entire Cowher family! :cry02:

[kmsteelerwr15]

This is very sad. My prayers are out to them. RIP

[Shea]

Yep, very sad. I didn't even know she had been sick.

[Wallace108]

WOW!!! This is really sad. My heart goes out to the Cowher family.

[tony hipchest]

WTF????

did anyone even know that she was sick?

she was mercilessly ripped for tearing bill away from the steelers and he was mercilessly ripped for supposedly having "carolina (her home state and the place that made her happy) on the mind" in his final year with the team.

kudos to bill for putting family before money and fame, and i hope all the people who trashed them are choking on their crow. prayers to him and their daughters, and the 3 girls future children who will be short of one grandma.

[Chidi29]

Awful. Just simply awful. RIP

[Shea]

kudos to bill for putting family before money and fame, and i hope all the people who trashed them are choking on their crow. prayers to him and their daughters, and the 3 girls future children who will be short of one grandma.

Yep, I agree.

I can't even begin to imagine what losing my mother would be like - those poor girls.

And although this happens daily all over the world, and I feel for those people as well, I actually am physically feeling sadness for Coach right now.

I don't know him, yet it feels like I do a little. All those years, and all those memories.

Just hope the press leaves them be since they are asking for privacy during this time.

[Devilsdancefloor]

RIP very sad news

[Shoes]

Prayers and condolences to the Cowher family.

[Vincent]

Prayers to the Coach and their children. RIP Mrs Cowher.

[oneforthetoe]

wow ... shocking. prayers for Bill and the kids.

[tony hipchest]

there are 2 moments that always epitomized bill cowher to me.

at the end of SB XXX there is the famous clip of him being consoled by his family as he tries to put on a smile and tells his visibly distraught daughter "sometimes you win, sometimes you lose".

at the end of SB XL, in almost the same setting, his daugher yells "we're world champions, daddy" and then him and "his girls" do the family high-5.

in the 2 most defining moments of his career, his wife and daughters were there front and center, in almost a prominent role. to me, that is genuine, and what the family atmosphere that 'the chief' established with the steelers is all about.

[Mattsme]

there are 2 moments that always epitomized bill cowher to me.

at the end of SB XXX there is the famous clip of him being consoled by his family as he tries to put on a smile and tells his visibly distraught daughter "sometimes you win, sometimes you lose".

at the end of SB XL, in almost the same setting, his daugher yells "we're world champions, daddy" and then him and "his girls" do the family high-5.

in the 2 most defining moments of his career, his wife and daughters were there front and center, in almost a prominent role. to me, that is genuine, and what the family atmosphere that 'the chief' established with the steelers is all about.

I saw the news earlier tonight, and I was coming here to post almost this exact same thing. I remember those two scenes very vividly. You beat me to it.

[Shea]

there are 2 moments that always epitomized bill cowher to me.

at the end of SB XXX there is the famous clip of him being consoled by his family as he tries to put on a smile and tells his visibly distraught daughter "sometimes you win, sometimes you lose".

at the end of SB XL, in almost the same setting, his daugher yells "we're world champions, daddy" and then him and "his girls" do the family high-5.

in the 2 most defining moments of his career, his wife and daughters were there front and center, in almost a prominent role. to me, that is genuine, and what the family atmosphere that 'the chief' established with the steelers is all about.

Yeah, I'm picturing the same images tonight.

Can even see the Steeler scrunchie his daughter was wearing to pull back her hair during XXX.

And the pitch of his voice during XL. "My girls!" ... and seeing them all on the podium.

Obviously, a sad day that therefore brings up memories that haven't been recalled for awhile.

[tony hipchest]

in nfl network's "americas game 43" bill cowher's lip is quivering like it has never quivered before, and his eyes well up with tears as he describes the moment with "his girls" immediately after the confetti is flying.

[I-Want-Troy's-Hair]

Wow I wasn't expecting to see that. They really kept everything quiet. Prayers to Coach and his daughters.

[SteelerEmpire]

Rest in peace Kaye ...

[LLT]

Wow...Like most, I had no idea that Kaye was ill. My prayers go out to the Cowher family.

[Wheelz]

Heartfelt sympathies to the Cowher family

[Galax Steeler]

This is horrible news RIP.

[HometownGal]

OMG how very sad. I had no idea she was suffering from cancer but now she is in God's Kingdom and will suffer no more. Thoughts and prayers out to CoachCowher and the Cowher girls and may Kaye forever :rip:

[solardave]

I always admired the Cowher family. I had no idea she was ill. This is really sad. I don't what to say.

[zulater]

Very sad news. RIP Kaye, and prayers to the Cowher family.

[tihmtahm]

there are 2 moments that always epitomized bill cowher to me.

at the end of SB XXX there is the famous clip of him being consoled by his family as he tries to put on a smile and tells his visibly distraught daughter "sometimes you win, sometimes you lose".

at the end of SB XL, in almost the same setting, his daugher yells "we're world champions, daddy" and then him and "his girls" do the family high-5.

in the 2 most defining moments of his career, his wife and daughters were there front and center, in almost a prominent role. to me, that is genuine, and what the family atmosphere that 'the chief' established with the steelers is all about.

Without a doubt the exact sentiment I have. Talk about the ones you never see coming. Man, I'm absolutely stunned about this news. My heart and prayers go out to Coach Cowher and their daughters. Kaye can now give Big Art a hug and tell him we all miss him down here!

[AKsteeler]

Wow, this is so very sad. I am praying for their entire family. God Bless the Cowher family.

[stillers4me]

My deepest sympathies to Coach Cowher and his family.

[ALLD]

Very unexpected and terrible news. Our best goes out to coach and his family.

[Canadian Steeler Nation]

So sad and so young to pass. My deepest sympathies to Coach and his daughters.

[polamalubeast]

This is horrible news RIP.

[SMR]

I too had no idea she was even sick. Ugh....this is just heartbreaking. My prayers and sympathies go to the Jaw and family. RIP Kaye.

[BPS3akaWirels3]

This is a sad day for the Steeler Organization and Steeler Nation... My prays and thoughts go out to Bill and the girls... RIP

[MULLDOG24]

God bless the Cowher family. My prayers and condolences go out to them.

[Akagi]

Man, that's awful. Skin cancer can take you down fast, like in a couple months. My heart goes out to the Cowher family.

[vader29]

She was way too young, so sad.

[Killer]

WTF????

did anyone even know that she was sick?

Not a clue.

RIP

[Burghfan58]

Wow! What a stunner that was when I checked out the Post Gazette this morning. They did a good job of keeping this out of the news which is how it should be. Best wishes to a good family and a sad affair for all.

[crcsnail]

sad news indeed :( RIP

[klick81]

So young. RIP Mrs. Cowher.

[venom]

Rest in Peace . My prayers are with the Cowher family .

[SteelerFanInStl]

I just saw this on Sportscenter this morning and I was shocked. Like the rest of you, I had no idea that she was even sick. Prayers go out to Coach and his family. I lost my Dad to cancer so I know what they're going through. :pray:

[Godfather]

Terrible news.

Anyone know if she had a pet charity where we can make a memorial contribution? That would be better than sending thousands of flowers that will dry up in a few days.

[BPS3akaWirels3]

If anyone hears or knows if the viewing or funeral is open to the public w/ location please post. I am down here in Greenville (hour from Raleigh) till Friday and would love to go and pay my respects..

[NJarhead]

That is aweful. They must be devestated. She was entirely too young.
R.I.P.

[BigNastyDefense]

RIP Kaye Cowher. My thoughts and prayers are with the Cowher family.

This brings new light to Coach's resignation. He let himself be ripped for "losing it" and becoming "burned out" to probably keep her medical condition a secret. That's very honorable, not many people would put their own ego and legacy aside to do that for anyone.

[BPS3akaWirels3]

Terrible news.

Anyone know if she had a pet charity where we can make a memorial contribution? That would be better than sending thousands of flowers that will dry up in a few days.

http://www.jimmyv.org/component/content/article/55-charities/584-the-kay-yowwbca-cancer-fund.html

[Indo]

Wow.

I, too, had no idea...
I'm guessing it was melanoma

RIP


As for a donation----perhaps we could all contribute something and send a single donation from 'Steelers Universe'

[GutterflowerSteel]

I'm stunned by this tragic piece of news :( I can't imagine what the rest of the Cowhers must be going through. Much too young to pass away ...


Wow.

I, too, had no idea...
I'm guessing it was melanoma

RIP


As for a donation----perhaps we could all contribute something a send a single donation from 'Steelers Universe'

That's a good idea - I'd gladly contribute.

[stillers4me]

Coach Cowher has released a statement:



Former Steelers coach Bill Cowher issued this statement today to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on the passing of his wife, Kaye:
"Sadly, my wife Kaye lost her battle with cancer on Friday. Kaye was such a loving and compassionate person and she was the foundation of our family. Kaye was always at my side throughout my career as a player, coach, NFL analyst and, most importantly, as a parent to our three daughters Meagan, Lauren and Lindsay. They will miss their mother dearly.


Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10205/1075166-100.stm#ixzz0ucntkqPQ






He asks that all donations be sent to Family Resources of Pennsylvania (412)-363-1702; www.familyresourcesofpa.org.

[LLT]

For those of you wanting to make a donation:


The Cowher family has asked that anyone interested in making a donation on Kaye's behalf be directed to Family Resources of Pennsylvania, a charity that tries to prevent and treat child abuse by strengthening families and neighborhoods. The organization can be contacted by calling (412) 363-1702 or online at www.familyresourcesofpa.org.

http://www.theredzone.org/BlogDescription/tabid/61/EntryId/8483/Bill-Cowher-releases-a-statement-on-the-passing-of-his-wife-Kaye/Default.aspx

[steeldevil]

RIP. Very sad news, did not know she was sick.

[Nadroj 20]

Very sad news...RIP Kaye

[SteelCityMan786]

The Steeler Nation lost a very valuable member. She will be missed.

Prayers to the Cowher Family. Rest in Peace Kaye. You're gone, but never forgotten.

[wvsportsman]

Wow, what a shock this is! My sympathy and prayers To Bill and his daughters. RIP mrs C.

[Mamaduck43]

What heartbreaking news.... I am so glad that Coach Cowher and his family had some 'not so stressful' retirement years together.... I hated it when he left, but this news makes the statement, 'living for the moment', much more valid... R.I.P. Kaye Cowher, and I hope that Coach and your three lovely daughters can find peace and healing......

[Crow-Magnon]

My condolences to Bill and his family.

My wife and I met Bill and Kaye Cowher when we were on our honeymoon in Jamaica way back in 1988. He must have just left Cleveland as their secondary coach and was on his way to taking over as the DC for KC. I will freely admit Bill was a bit gruff, but Kaye seemed gracious. I could tell that they definitely loved each other.

I have had my "The Chin" moments over the years as a Ravens fan, but I will give Bill Cowher a big thumbs-up from Baltimore for walking away from coaching at the pinnacle of his career so he could focus on his wife and family....and for keeping the issue of his wife's health 100% private. You don't see much of that in today's world, so I commend him for that greatly.

Sad new indeed.

[tony hipchest]

bills statement-


"Kaye was such a loving and compassionate person and she was the foundation of our family," Bill Cowher, now an NFL analyst for CBS, said in a statement. "Kaye was always at my side throughout my career as a player, coach, NFL analyst and, most importantly, as a parent to our three daughters Meagan, Lauren and Lindsay. They will miss their mother dearly."

"Kaye was the rock that we could all lean on in the tough times. She was looked up to by so many people and I cannot say enough about what Kaye meant to our family," Cowher said. "Her memory will never be forgotten."


http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5406440

[Craic]

RIP Kaye Cowher. My thoughts and prayers are with the Cowher family.

This brings new light to Coach's resignation. He let himself be ripped for "losing it" and becoming "burned out" to probably keep her medical condition a secret. That's very honorable, not many people would put their own ego and legacy aside to do that for anyone.

I was wondering the same thing. If she was sick before he left, then my respect for him doubles.again for putting family first.

[Carolina Steelers]

WOW!! I just now heard about this very sad news, I agree with everyone comments as well. I didnt know she was sick either. Very Shocking

[Godfather]

I was wondering the same thing. If she was sick before he left, then my respect for him doubles.again for putting family first.

Agree.

I never thought he was mailing it in that last year. Ben's faceplant and appendectomy didn't help our cause...the only thing I faulted him for was mismanaging the clock against the Falcons. The other losses in the first half, the team put up a valiant effort. Especially Denver when Hines lost the ball because he was giving extra effort to score.

[salamander]

My thoughts and prayers are with the Cowher family.

May Kaye Rest In Peace.

[Psycho Ward 86]

Oh no! Best wishes from the fans!!!

[X-Terminator]

I found out about this earlier this afternoon from HTG. I'm in shock, and like so many of you, I had no idea she was sick. My condolences and prayers to Coach Cowher and his family - just awful news. :(

[steelerdude15]

Like most of you, I wasn't aware of her sickness. I'm shocked to of hear of the horrible news, R.I.P. Kaye Cowher and may the Cowher family have strength and guidance through this tough time.

[zulater]

I've heard speculation that Kaye's illness might have been why Cowher quit to begin with. Whether Bill ever addresses that question remains to be seen. Obviously the Cowher's chose to keep thing fairly quiet so my guess is that he wont, at least in the short term.

But I think it's fairly probable that this is why he withdrew himself from consideration early in the proccess from all coaching openings at the start of this offseason.

My admiration for coach Cowher, while already high has gone up significantly. Clearly he's a man who's priorities are in the right order.

[TatarMongol]

RIP Mrs. Cowher. I'll pray 4 u.

[wootawnee]

Hope we see you on CBS this fall coach...........So you can fight with Shannon and Boomer..... We love Ya coach........

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

I'm shocked, saddened and sympathetic to the entire family. She looked like the rock of the family that kept it all together. I wish the best to the family in their time of grief.

[st33lersguy]

RIP Kaye Cowher, I feel so sorry for her and her family

[memphissteelergirl]

Yep, very sad. I didn't even know she had been sick.

I didn't either. They (the family) obviously did it this way on purpose. And I can understand that. It was the same way with Dixie Carter, the actress. I did not know how ill she was until her death was announced. Her husband and family kept it pretty private as well.

Prayers to Coach Cowher and the girls.

[SteelGhost]

R.I.P. Mrs. Cowher, all my prayers for you and your family.

[SteelMember]

I'm very saddened to hear of this. My condolences to the families.

[steel striker]

Very sad news many prayers to the Cowher family. I had no idea she had cancer.

[steeldevil]

Just saw on the news that the funeral was today in a small church outside Raleigh. The service was private and the only footage was of Bill and his daughters leaving the church.

[JoeCactus]

Class never lets in on troubles...........and Class quietly ........aborsbs the pain...........this is what it is..............Class

[tony hipchest]

small excerpt from peter king's MMQB column-


http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/2010/writers/peter_king/07/25/mmqb/kaye-cowher.jpg
Kaye Cowher was at husband Bill's side when the Steelers won Super Bowl XL in Detroit.
Getty Images




1. I think this is what I'll always remember about Kaye Cowher (wife of Bill), who died of skin cancer at 54 Friday: In the mayhem outside the Steelers locker room after their Super Bowl loss to Dallas in early 1996 in Arizona, one of the Cowher daughters was crying. Bill hugged her and said it was OK, and then he had to go, and the girl was still so sad. And Kaye told her her dad would be fine, and games all had winners and losers, and it would be OK because the Steelers played so hard. Just good lessons from a mom to a daughter who needed good lessons just then. The way Kaye was with the girl -- kind, gentle, smiling, letting her know the world wasn't over because one football game was lost -- showed the kind of perspective that helps kids grow up the right way.
The other point I'd make about Kaye Cowher has to do with skin cancer. I'm a melanoma survivor. I've still got what looks like a shark bite in my right forearm from having cancer cut out of there two years ago. I can't say it loudly enough, and I'm sure Kaye Cowher would want the same thing said if she could say it right now: Go get screened. I just had another mole cut off my back two weeks ago. Every four months I go to the dermatologist, and if you're fair-skinned like me, and you're pushing 45, I'd go get checked immediately. Kaye Cowher was a healthy, vital, tremendously fit person, but you can't beat skin cancer if you don't catch it in time.


Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/07/25/mmqb/3.html#ixzz0uvxSd8CZ



peter king was also one who actively followed the sickness of eagles coach jim johnson (who passed last year) and urged his readers to get screened.

[86WARD]

RIP.

[tony hipchest]

pat kirwan, a close friend, colleague and confidant of bill cowher opened his radio show today with condolences and some insight on how the coach was doing. kirwan is in his inner circle and has known of kates illness for a while. pats own brother had a wife lose her life to the disease at the age of 54 too, so im sure cowher found a level of empathy and trust with a person he could confide in.

pat spoke to bill on saturday and said he is doing okay and hinted that the demeanor was that life will go on. he noted that there was one daughter that bill was specifically concerned about taking it the hardest and she turned out to be the strongest through the whole ordeal.

bill, who is a frequent guest on him and pats sirius radio show (Moving the Chains) was scheduled to join them broadcasting live as an "in studio" analyst for a few stops on their camp tour in the next several weeks.

cowher is keeping those commitments. it would be cool if one of his co-host duties would be in latrobe for the friday night goaline scrimmage, but knowing bill, he wouldnt want to be a distraction.

bill parcells confirmed a miami visit, saying it will be great to have him there on the media side as opposed to the sidelines. its a good sign that he still plans to grab life by the horns and not go into a shell.

im guessing another of the camp stops would be cleveland, where he could personally interview mike holmgren. heres to strenght in bereavement... :drink:

[stlrtruck]

RIP Kaye.

Prayers for the family.

[zulater]

pat kirwan, a close friend, colleague and confidant of bill cowher opened his radio show today with condolences and some insight on how the coach was doing. kirwan is in his inner circle and has known of kates illness for a while. pats own brother had a wife lose her life to the disease at the age of 54 too, so im sure cowher found a level of empathy and trust with a person he could confide in.

pat spoke to bill on saturday and said he is doing okay and hinted that the demeanor was that life will go on. he noted that there was one daughter that bill was specifically concerned about taking it the hardest and she turned out to be the strongest through the whole ordeal.

bill, who is a frequent guest on him and pats sirius radio show (Moving the Chains) was scheduled to join them broadcasting live as an "in studio" analyst for a few stops on their camp tour in the next several weeks.

cowher is keeping those commitments. it would be cool if one of his co-host duties would be in latrobe for the friday night goaline scrimmage, but knowing bill, he wouldnt want to be a distraction.

bill parcells confirmed a miami visit, saying it will be great to have him there on the media side as opposed to the sidelines. its a good sign that he still plans to grab life by the horns and not go into a shell.

im guessing another of the camp stops would be cleveland, where he could personally interview mike holmgren. heres to strenght in bereavement... :drink:

Thanks for the update tony.