Chase Stegall, son of Bomber legend, dies unexpectedly

Chase Stegall, the eldest son of Winnipeg Blue Bombers legend Milt Stegall, died unexpectedly Monday morning in his residence at the DePaul University. He was 20 years old.

In a statement released Tuesday night, the Stegall family remembered Chase for his love, kindness and talent.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved son and brother, Chase Hamilton Stegall.

“We are deeply touched by the outpouring of love and appreciation for Chase and the many gifts he shared throughout his life. Your heartfelt condolences and support mean more than words can express. In this time of grief, we take comfort in knowing how many lives he touched and we will continue to honour Chase’s memory with the love and light he brought into the world.

“As a family, we ask for privacy as we grieve this deeply painful loss,” the statement said. The cause of death was not released.

The Chicago university, where Chase was a sophomore midfielder on the school’s soccer team, announced the news in an email to faculty, staff, and students.

“Chase was known for his warmth, strength of character, and vibrant presence — qualities that touched the lives of many both on and off the field,” DePaul president Rob Manuel said in a statement. “His loss is deeply felt by his teammates, coaches, classmates, faculty, staff, and all who knew him. We extend our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies to Chase’s family, friends, and loved ones.”

The Blue Bombers also released a statement.

“We are heartbroken to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of Chase Stegall, beloved son of Blue Bombers legend Milt Stegall,” Winnipeg Football Club president and CEO Wade Miller said. “Chase was a bright and talented young man with a promising future, and his loss is felt deeply across our entire Blue Bombers family.”

Chase appeared in 16 of 17 matches for DePaul this past season.

Stegall played 14 seasons for the Blue Bombers and retired in 2009 as the CFL’s all-time leading receiver and owned the record for most career touchdowns.

Stegall, his wife Darlene, and their youngest son, Collin, live in Atlanta, Ga.

“We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Chase Stegall, a cherished member of our community, dedicated teammate and kind-hearted friend,” said DePaul vice-president and director of athletics DeWayne Peevy and men’s soccer coach Mark Plotkin in a joint statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Chase’s family, friends, teammates and all who loved him.

“In the coming days, we will support Chase’s family and teammates through this devastating time. His loss will be deeply felt across our entire athletics and university family and his memory will forever be a part of DePaul University.”

Details on a memorial service have not yet been announced.

taylor.allen@freepress.mb.ca