SOUTH BEND, Indiana (25 September 2002) - Heisman Trophy winner Leon Hart died Tuesday, September 24th, at the St. Joseph Medical Center in South Bend, Indiana. He had been hospitalized since September 15, one day after attending Notre Dames victory over Michigan.

Hart, one of Notre Dames seven Heisman winners, captured the award by a landslide in 1949. He was one of only two linemen to ever earn this honor.

At Notre Dame (1946-1949), Hart attained several achievements while playing both sides of the line for the Irish. He was voted on All-American teams for three of his four years, during which Notre Dame never lost a game. Hart was successful both on the field and in the classroom at Notre Dame. He was president of his senior class and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

In 1950, Leon Hart was selected first overall in the NFL draft by the Detroit Lions. In 1951, he was voted All-Pro on offense and defense. He played eight seasons with the Lions, helping the team win four division titles and three world championships.

Leon Hart is preceded in death by his beloved wife Lois and is survived by his six children and fourteen grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Saturday September 28th at Holy Name Church in Birmingham, MI. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:

The Man Resa Retreat House
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304