RENTON, Wash. (AP) -- Jack Patera, the first head coach in the history of the Seattle Seahawks, has died at age 85.
Patera died on Wednesday, the team said. The cause of death was not clear, but Patera had been battling pancreatic cancer.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jack Patera and extend our utmost sympathies and condolences to the Patera family," read a statement from the Seahawks.
"We will remember coach Patera most for his big heart, sense of humor and genuine spirit."
Patera was Seattle's head coach for parts of seven seasons, beginning with the team's inaugural season in 1976.