Former Stampeders star Jim Furlong passes away at 85
Jim Furlong, a standout linebacker for the Calgary Stampeders and a member of Canada’s Grey Cup champion ranks, has died at the age of 85. The club confirmed the news on Friday, noting only that his passing occurred recently and offering condolences to his family and friends.
A career that bridged the gridiron era
Furlong’s CFL career spanned more than a decade, highlighted by a dominant run with the Calgary Stampeders from 1962 to 1974. During that time, he appeared in 174 games, establishing himself as a durable and productive defender in a league known for its physical style of play. His achievements earned him recognition as a West Division all-star in 1965, underscoring his status among the league’s elite linebackers of the era.
Peak highlights: a Grey Cup champion
The pinnacle of Furlong’s on-field success came in 1971 when he helped lead the Stampeders to Grey Cup glory. That championship team remains a memorable chapter in Calgary football history, and Furlong’s contributions on defense were a key component of the title run. His ability to read plays, combined with a linebacker’s instinct for disrupting offenses, made him a fixture in Calgary’s defensive schemes for years.
Impact beyond the stat sheet
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Furlong’s legacy extends to the culture of the Stampeders and the broader CFL community. He represented an era when players often balanced demanding training with full-time jobs, emphasizing grit, teamwork, and resilience. Those traits resonated with teammates, coaches, and fans who remember him as a reliable presence who could be depended on in critical moments of a game.
Legacy and remembrance
As information about Furlong’s passing circulates, the Calgary Stampeders and CFL supporters are reflecting on a life spent pursuing excellence on the gridiron. The 1965 all-star honor and the 1971 Grey Cup triumph are among several career milestones that collectors of Canadian football history will note, illustrating the enduring impact a single player can have on a franchise’s narrative.
What comes next for fans and the team
While no public details about the cause of death were released, tribute messages from the Stampeders and the CFL community are expected in the days ahead. Fans can honor Furlong’s memory by celebrating the era he helped shape, sharing stories of his leadership, and reflecting on the rich heritage of Calgary football that continues to inspire new generations of players.
In memory
Jim Furlong’s passing marks the loss of a dedicated athlete who left an indelible mark on the field and in the hearts of those who watched him play. His name remains associated with the best of Calgary football history, and his legacy will be carried forward by teammates, fans, and future generations who learn about the Stampeders’ championship years from the stories of players like him.
