March 31, 2003
 George
L. Connor, considered one of the NFL’s greatest
two-way players, died March 31 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital,
Chicago, Ill., at 78, after a long illness.
A college and professional football star, Mr. Connor was
selected to All-Pro teams on both offense and defense in
1952 and 1953. Drafted by the former Boston Yanks professional
football team, he played eight seasons with the Chicago Bears
as a linebacker. Mr. Connor was elected to the Pro Football
Hall of Fame in 1975.
At Holy Cross, he won All-America honors during his second
year; he was also named the outstanding football player in
New England. Leaving Holy Cross to serve in World War II,
he subsequently made All-America twice on two undefeated
Notre Dame teams.
In 1946, Mr. Connor was the winner of the first Outland
Trophy awarded to the nation’s top lineman.
After retiring from professional football, he served as
an assistant coach, broadcaster, master of ceremonies for
numerous charity events, and Chicago businessman.
Mr. Connor was a graduate of De La Salle High School in
Chicago, where he had been a member of the football team.
He is survived by his wife, Suzanne; two sons, including
Albert D. ’87; a brother; a sister; and several nephews
and nieces.
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