NY Giants Owner, Mara, Dies of Cancer at 89

Wellington Mara, one of the founders of the NFL and owner of the NY Giants football team has died today of cancer. It was unannounced what type of cancer Mara suffered. Mara is regarded as one of the league's most important and influential members.

"Wellington Mara represented the heart and soul of the National Football League," NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue said. "He was a man of deep conviction who stood as a beacon of integrity."

He began his career with the New York Giants at age 9 as a ballboy in 1925. His father had bought the Giants and Mara went on to serve the team for 80 years.

Mara is survived by his wife, 11 children and 40 grandchildren. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

The Ny Giants has created a dedication page for Mare. Please visit the NY Giants site for more.