Former Vikings owner McCombs dies at 95

Former Vikings owner Billy Joe (Red) McCombs has died at the age of 95.

According to a family statement, McCombs died on Sunday.

McCombs owned the Vikings from 1998 to 2005.

He was also the former owner of the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets.

(Photo: MN Vikings)

= =

Vikings’ statement:

“The Minnesota Vikings are saddened by the passing of former team owner Red McCombs. Red embodied his famous “Purple Pride” phrase and remained a staunch Vikings fan after passing the torch to the Wilf family in 2005. While Red had a clear passion for sports, it was evident what he loved the most were his children and grandchildren. Our thoughts and prayers are with the McCombs family during this difficult time. We will be forever grateful for Red and Charline’s contributions to the Vikings.”

= =

McCombs family statement:

“The entire McCombs Family is heartbroken to announce that our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Red McCombs, passed away on Sunday, February 19, 2023. As he drew his last breath peacefully at home, he was surrounded by family who loved and adored him.

Red was a visionary entrepreneur who touched many lives and impacted our community in immeasurable ways. But to us he was always, first and foremost, “Dad” or “Poppop.”

We mourn the loss of a Texas icon.”