Virginia Halas McCaskey, Daughter of Bears Founder, Dies at 102

The NFL and the Chicago Bears community have lost a legend. Virginia McCaskey, the longtime owner of the Chicago Bears, passed away at 102 years old. She was more than just a team owner—she was the heart and soul of one of the most historic franchises in football.

For more than four decades, she oversaw the Bears with the same values that her father, George Halas, instilled in the team when he founded it. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, McCaskey’s legacy will live on both in the world of football and in the hearts of her family and fans.

A Life Rooted in Family and Football

Born in 1923 in Chicago, Virginia Halas McCaskey was the eldest child of George and Min Halas. Her younger brother, George “Mugs” Halas Jr., was expected to take over the team, but after his sudden passing in 1979, Virginia found herself in a role she never anticipated—team owner.

She inherited the Chicago Bears on October 31, 1983, following her father’s passing, and kept the franchise in the family just as George Halas would have wanted. She always described herself as a custodian of a legacy, rather than an owner, emphasizing that the team was bigger than any individual.

A Steward of the Chicago Bears

Virginia McCaskey’s tenure saw the Bears’ Super Bowl victory in 1986 and their Super Bowl appearance in 2007. Under her guidance, the team continued to evolve while maintaining the rich traditions her father set in place.

Her approach was hands-off, but when necessary, she exercised her authority to steer the franchise in the right direction. Even though she rarely sought the spotlight, her influence was felt throughout the organization.

The Bears Care Foundation, established in 2005, was one of her most significant contributions. Under her leadership, over $31.5 million has been donated to 225 organizations, improving the lives of many in the Chicago area. The foundation supports health awareness programs, especially for breast and ovarian cancer, causes that were close to her heart.

A Marriage Built on Love and Service

Virginia McCaskey met her future husband, Edward W. McCaskey, while attending Drexel University in Philadelphia. They married on February 2, 1943, before Edward went off to serve in World War II. Their marriage was a partnership in every sense, built on faith, love, and a deep-rooted commitment to family.

Together, they raised 11 children, instilling the same values of hard work and humility that defined the Bears franchise. Edward, who passed away in 2003, served as chairman of the team for many years. Their son, Michael McCaskey, took over as team president before his passing in 2020.

The McCaskey Family Legacy

Family was everything to Virginia McCaskey. She is survived by her children: Patrick (Gretchen), Edward Jr. (Kathy), George (Barbara), Richard, Brian (Barbara), and Joseph, and daughters Ellen (Barney) Tonquest, Mary, and Anne (Mike) Catron. She was preceded in death by her husband Edward, and sons Timothy (2011) and Michael (2020).

Her legacy continues through her 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. The McCaskey family has long played an integral role in the Bears’ operations, and that tradition will carry on.

Her Net Worth and the Business of the Bears

As the principal owner of the Chicago Bears, Virginia McCaskey had a net worth estimated to be around $2 billion as of 2025. The Bears remain a family-run organization, one of the few in major professional sports today.

McCaskey always made decisions with the team and its fans in mind, ensuring that financial matters never overshadowed the legacy her father built. The Bears’ value has steadily increased under her watch, reflecting both her business acumen and her commitment to keeping the team in the family.

A Life of Faith and Purpose

One of the most defining characteristics of Virginia McCaskey was her unwavering faith. A devout Catholic, she credited her spirituality for guiding her through life’s challenges, from losing her father and brother to navigating the pressures of owning an NFL franchise.

She often spoke about how faith played a role in her leadership style and in her family values. Her humility, kindness, and devotion to service left a mark not just in football, but in the broader community.

The Final Chapter

Even at 102 years old, Virginia McCaskey remained deeply involved with the Bears. She attended games when she could and stayed connected with the franchise’s decisions.

Her presence will be missed in Chicago and beyond, but her impact is undeniable. From the Bears’ storied history to the lives she touched through charitable work, her contributions extend far beyond football.

The End of an Era, But Not the End of Her Influence

The passing of Virginia McCaskey marks the end of a significant era in the Chicago Bears’ history, but her legacy lives on. She was more than an owner—she was a custodian of a football dynasty, a matriarch of a sprawling family, and a pillar of faith and integrity.

For Bears fans, her loss is deeply personal. She embodied everything that makes Chicago football great—loyalty, toughness, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

As the McCaskey family carries on her vision, one thing is certain: Virginia McCaskey’s impact on the Bears, the NFL, and the city of Chicago will never be forgotten.

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