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Chuck Muncie Obituary
Muncie family spokesman Vintage Foster of AMF Media Group in San Ramon, Calif., said Muncie died at his Los Angeles-area home on Monday from heart failure.
Muncie was the Saints' first-round pick, third overall, out of California in 1976. He played 4½ seasons in New Orleans before being traded in 1980 to San Diego, where he finished his nine-year NFL career.
In 1979, Muncie became the first Saint to rush for 1,000 yards, finishing with 1,198 yards and 11 touchdowns, and his 1,506 total yards from scrimmage earned him the first of his three Pro Bowl selections.
The 6-foot-3 Muncie, who played at 227 pounds, and fellow Saints running back Tony Galbreath formed what then-coach Hank Stram dubbed the "Thunder and Lightning" combination in the New Orleans ba ckfield. Both running backs are now member of the Saints Hall of Fame.
Saints owner Tom Benson said in a written statement that the Saints were mourning Muncie's "untimely passing," adding, "Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and other loved ones at this difficult time."
Muncie was traded by the Saints at midseason in 1980 to the San Diego Chargers, where he played 51 games and was named to Pro Bowl rosters two more times, in 1981 and '82. In 2009, the club recognized him as one of the 50 greatest Chargers of all time.
His accomplishments on the field came despite cocaine use, and in 1989, five years after his retirement from pro football, Muncie was sentenced to 18 months in prison for a cocaine distribution conviction.
Thereafter, however, he began sharing his life story with at-risk youth, highlighting his struggles with drug abuse. He created the Chuck Muncie Youth Foundation, the mission of which was to offer children mentoring, educati onal assistance and counseling.
"His work with at-risk youth, the Boys and Girls Clubs and his foundation were the things that really made him shine," Muncie's daughter, Danielle Ward, said in a written statement provided by Foster.
"He was star on the football field but his most impressive work was done in the second chapter of his life where he lived his life with great transparency," added Muncie's former wife, Robyn Hood. "He simply wanted others to learn from his mistakes. He carried that message with him everywhere he went. And as a result, he changed the lives of hundreds of kids. He made a difference."
Muncie's 43 touchdowns for San Diego, and 19 touchdowns in a single season, both rank second in Chargers history, eclipsed only by LaDainian Tomlinson.
"Everyone at the Chargers is deeply saddened by the passing of Chuck Muncie, one of the greatest running backs in Chargers history," the team said in a written statement. "We will remember him a s a tremendous athlete with a larger-than-life personality. It's a sad day for all of us and all Chargers fans."
In nine seasons, Muncie finished with 6,702 yards rushing, 2,323 yards receiving and 74 total touchdowns.
___
BRETT MARTEL, AP Sports Writer
AP Sports Writer Bernie Wilson in San Diego contributed to this report.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
146 Entries
Carl F. Miller
January 16, 2023
For Chuck, as for all of us "Now the mystery begins."
May 18, 2020
God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the family's...My heartfelt condolences to the family's..
Richard Koler
October 2, 2019
Always admired Chuck's feats on the field, and his contribution to the youth programs of California. Would like to fund the Chuck Muncie Story for a film.
Timoteo Rodriguez
May 27, 2018
It was great time
I didn't know you personally but was stationed with your daughter and son in law, in Guam on the uss frank cable I thought it was great knowing someone who knew someone who was related to someone famous. Danielle talked about you I loved to here her stories. I always listened. I have great respect for someone who raised someone who I respect your daughter thanks for your gift to the world as a talented football player and a father.
How you can show support
Ivana Gerhard
August 11, 2013
I own taxi service in Vero beach Ivanas taxi took chuck fr Sebastian to Mco one early morning he was a pleasure and we texted for a while after so sorry to hear of his passing he accomplished a lot
Reyna Rivera
July 18, 2013
I will always remember your big smile , larger than life and your laugh . You were an exceptional person not just in football but in life . I will miss talking to you.You gave so much of your heart and time helping others and you were an inspiration . Will always remember you and your big hugs. Rest in peace you are truly an angel .
Patricia Munsey-Russell
July 1, 2013
It's still very hard living without you. I have your love, your smile all of the wonderful memories in my heart.--Love Patty
June 9, 2013
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
June 7, 2013
To my baby brother, oh how I miss you!
Forever in my heart. I love you Chuck. I know that I will see you again .Rest, I love you. Your SIS--Patty
Roderick Patterson
June 4, 2013
My heart is broken at the thought That Chuck is no longer with us, he was my friend my hero always ready to help a child in need of hope and a sense of self worth he was truly a gentle giant, rest in peace big fella, you will be truly missed .
May 28, 2013
RIP Chuck a Luck, I will always love you. Thank you for all the fun and loving moments we had together. Thank you for Danielle. I'm happy to know you are in the arms of your mom, dad and brothers, I know you guys are having a parrrtay! Please watch out over Lianna, Jo Jo , and Ali Bear, I know you will. Just rest now.
I will miss you a lot.
Love,
Robyn.
May 28, 2013
Wonderful, friend, person, NFL player and a person I know as a friend that had a heart of gold! Wish more people in this world were as nice as Chuck! Katrina Ramsey (MD)
Cathy Webster-Clint
May 25, 2013
How do I tell you how much we loved the football and that I'm glad and grateful for the memories. I still remember yelling at the games "give the ball to Muncie!" Those games were so exciting, so heart stopping. We used to cheer so much that after the games we had no voice left. You were a marvel to watch Mr. Muncie. I was lucky to see it. Lucky my Dad had season tickets. What a beautiful service you had at the Rock Church. RIP
Carlos Bradley
May 25, 2013
Big man,big heart, great teammate,great times. R.I.P penna.brother.
oaton dyson
May 25, 2013
live everyday like it's the last day
Marsha Stratford
May 23, 2013
My brother, my world. God bless you and I will miss you. Be at peace.
S Craig
May 23, 2013
Goodbless RIP Chuck Craig New York
Margaret Emelson
May 22, 2013
Chuck was one of the most talented students @ Uniontown High to ever take the acting class which I taught. His focus and point of concentration were excellent. In the one semester we shared the tables of the mind, I knew I was in the presence of "Greatness." Chuckie, you made such a difference in the lives of young people that you have indeed become a true "SAINT." May your daughter and the family find joy in knowing that your witness in the last two decades changed young lives and saved others so much pain.These memories are Chuck's legacy of love to his family and friends. "Good Night Sweet Prince and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest." (Hamlet)
Wayne Wilson
May 21, 2013
Chuck was a good team mate and he taught me a lot RIP chuck
Denise Wormley
May 21, 2013
We are praying for you family that God comfort you & God will keep you in his loving arms. This is our prayer for you.
Darryl Cordeiro
May 20, 2013
Chuck,
The many years of joy and excitement you gave me. How you took life by the reigns and showed so many the right way to adulthood. To watch you in action with those kids will be forever implanted in my soul. Thanks for the great talk and time together we had.
Love you forever,
Darryl
May 20, 2013
sorry to hear of his death, but how old
was he?
Paulette Carter-Beckwith
May 20, 2013
My condolences to the Muncie family. I grew up in Uniontown, Pa with Chuck, I remember him as a great guy.
Annie
May 20, 2013
To chucks family:Stay strong continue to pray,and know that. God does care.
Dean Kleinschmidt
May 20, 2013
To the entire Muncie Family, I share your sadness over the news of Chuck's sudden passing. I had the privilege to work with Chuck as his athletic trainer in New Orleans from 1976-80. He was truly an incredible athlete with combined size, power,and talent rarely seen in the NFL. I am,however, much more proud of the way he lived his life after football. He shall be missed. God Bless,
Dean Kleinschmidt, ATC
May 20, 2013
My condolence to the Muncie family and friends
Big smile and big loss, you will be missed Chuck.
d
May 20, 2013
ereyes ramirez
May 20, 2013
i use to watch chuck crossing the goal from tight wad hill with 3 guys hanging on trying to stop no running back like anymore RIP BEAR
Joe Goodrich
May 20, 2013
I remember him being a bruising running back,,,,I loved to watch him play
Wanda Price Williams
May 19, 2013
Condolences to the family and many friends of Chuck. I will always remember his bigger than life "smile". May the love of those around you all help you through the days ahead. God Bless You All
May 19, 2013
To Chuck's family, I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort from God andthose who care. 2Cor.:3,4
Christopher Hollins
May 18, 2013
Chuck thank you for the memories on the football field but more importantly thank you being an inspiration off the field by showing others how to get back up after life has knocked you down; find peace in God's Hall Of Fame!
C MUNROE
May 18, 2013
Chuck R.I.P. FROM FRIENDS IN NJ THE LORDS WELCOME YOU HOME AND WILL BLESS TOUR FAMILY TO NEXT TIME YOUR MEET UP GOD BLESS COACH CHRIS
Frank Ybarra
May 17, 2013
Chuck....R.I.P.
Sincerely,
Your Friend Frank
Eg
May 17, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
May 17, 2013
R.I.P. Chuck Muncie
May 17, 2013
Sorry for your lost prayers goes out to his family,
Ira Weiss
May 17, 2013
RIP Chuck!!! You are the epitome of a Super Charger Legend. You were also a good man and fought hard to redeem yourself after some difficult times. I was proud to call you a friend.
Gregory Ingram
May 17, 2013
God bless you and your family. Keep running in heaven
MELINA LEDET
May 17, 2013
LOVED YOU ''CHUCK''ESPECILLY WITH THE CHARGES......
Lisa Castle-Anderson
May 17, 2013
Thank you for sharing fun times at MONKS in San Diego. So many of us had special times there. My heart hurts along with all the Charger fans and friends. Smile that beautiful smile all over football heaven. When we here running over our heads with no storm insight, we will know it is you running through heaven carrying that football playing with the best of the best who went before you.
May 17, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
RODNEY CRISMORE
May 17, 2013
you were a good friend, an I ENJOYED WORKING WITH YOU.
May 17, 2013
I'M NOT A FOOTBALL FAN,BUT IT IS NICE TO KNOW THAT NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE,YOU CAN, AND DOES, MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE'S LIFE.THIS MAN OBVIOUSLY DID THIS.SO TO THE FAMILY,"HAPPY ARE THE PEACEABLE,SINCE THEY WILL BE CALLED' SON'S OF GOD."matt.5:9....north carolina
May 17, 2013
What a privilege to have known Chuck. Not only was he an excellent athlete but more importantly he was an excellent peson with a kind and giving heart. We will miss you. Thanks for the friendship.
Angie and Steve Sirico, Norwalk, CT
Mike Lentz
May 17, 2013
You were an inspiration in both sports & life. A member of my generation...you sure could run around end & score touchdowns. Thanks for all the great memories.
Nick Walton
May 17, 2013
God be with the family..
Ed Verbus
May 16, 2013
Bill Munsey, Sandy Stephens, Stu Lantz, Ben Gregory, Don Yates you could go on forever the greats that came from Uniontown, Pa. Patty Munsey my high school friend my condolences.
May 16, 2013
Rest in peace, a Uniontown great of many.
Ed Verbus Simi Valley, CA
jim lejeune
May 16, 2013
He's with the.Saints now in Heaven, God bless him and foundation gong for the at risk kids. Bless his family for their loss
Keith 'Bumps' Dayton
May 16, 2013
My condolences to all that are mourning the loss of a friend. God hears your pain & sadness. Seek him for healing
Tanya Sturrock
May 16, 2013
Enjoy Heaven
May 16, 2013
When Chuck Muncie was drafted by the Saints in 1976 I thought to myself "Why can't the Chargers get a player like Chuck".
Four years later that dream came true and Chuck came to San Diego.
It was a great time.
Chuck was a "Football Monster".
When he left San Diego for obvious reasons it was a sad day for many. Years later I had the great pleasure to meet Chuck face to face and I told him that I had been angry at him for many years, his response was "So have I".
Chuck could have been the best there ever was. We stayed in contact thru the years that followed. I saw the great work he continued to do "This was a great Man"
My wife and I were fortunate to accompany Chuck to the Superbowl in Miami between the 49er's and the Chargers. The outcome of that game had no impact on the ammount of fun we had that week hanging out with Chuck as far as I'm concerned Chuck was the best there ever was.
I will miss you greatly and I will hold on to this painting and autographed Jersey and share this story about this Great Man Until I get to meet with Chuck and my boy "Jo-Jo" on that great football field in the sky.
Love you Chuck, see you then.
GS in SD
Saints Fan
May 16, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
PAT BOHANNON
May 16, 2013
MY PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY
Roxanne (Hackett) Muse
May 16, 2013
Danille, Robyn and the rest of the Muncie family - Of course we are saddened by the passing of Chuck, but we are also gladdened by the affect he had on the rest of the world and the good that he did with most of his life. The whole world should be so fortunate to have known such a nice and giving person, not to mention such an excellent football player. To those he leaves behind, we love you and you are in our prayers.
Gerard Rohlf
May 16, 2013
Without the mistakes, Chuck was another bigtime football player. But those mistakes - and his relentless self-improvement in response to them - made him a superstar in Life. Now he can rest - at Peace with himself, and his Legacy of good works lives on. Amen.
SHARON MARTIN
May 16, 2013
MY CONDOLENCES GOES OUT TO THE MUNICE FAMILY AT THIS TIME!!! MAY ALL YOUR MEMORIES OF CHUCK, KEEP HIM ALIVE IN YOUR HEARTS AND MIND!
May 16, 2013
I am sorry to hear of the loss of Chuck Muncie. May his family find comfort in the psalmists words at Psalms 23:1-6.
Dolly Patterson
May 16, 2013
May you be at peace.God Bless you and I will miss the fun we had and will always be grateful for love and caring as a cousin.Rest with God ?
thad ketzner
May 16, 2013
Chuck was my first rb on my fantasy football team.A great a player an a geat man.Rest in peace my man.
Dave Mann
May 16, 2013
To Danielle and Family:
I not only knew Chuck, I picked he and his agent up at the airport after the New Orleans Saints drafted him. I got to know him well and he was a "happy go lucky guy" back then. The last time I saw him at at the L.A. Coliseum after a game, and as soon as he spotted me he said, "I hear you're living the Life of Reilly".
I only wish Chuck had never been exposed to drugs. However, he found redemption late in life, by "paying it forward" to youths and others about the danger of drugs. In his own way, Chuck Muncie did a world of good with his message and as far as I'm concerned, it was a greater contribution to society than his days as a football player at Cal, New Orleans and San Diego. He has been welcomed in heaven by his old Saints coach, Hank Stram.
My heartfelt condolences to Danielle and the family.
May 16, 2013
To Danielle and Family:
I not only knew Chuck, I picked he and his agent up at the airport after the New Orleans Saints drafted him. I got to know him well and he was a "happy go lucky guy" back then. The last time I saw him at the L.A. Coliseum after a game, and as soon as he spotted me he said, "I hear you're living the Life of Reilly".
I only wish Chuck had never been exposed to drugs. However, he found redemption late in life, by "paying it forward" to youths and others about the danger of drugs. In his own way, Chuck Muncie did a world of good with his message and as far as I'm concerned, it was a greater contribution to society than his days as a football player at Cal, New Orleans and San Diego. He has been welcomed in heaven by his old Saints coach, Hank Stram.
My heartfelt condolences to Danielle and the family.
Stuart Hodesh
May 16, 2013
Great memories of watching Chuck run for TD's with his glasses on !!! Thanks Chuck you were one of the best. Rest in peace. May your memory be for a blessing.
Stuart Hodesh (just a fan)
steve allen
May 16, 2013
R.I.p Chuck#46
Vr
May 16, 2013
I am sorry to read about Mr Muncie passing , I hope his work with young people will continue by those who work with him .
Irvin
May 16, 2013
To family and friends, Chuck will be missed for all His hard work and dedication to NFL, I am sorry for your lost , May you have peace when you reflect back on aill His Acomplment and the love He had for the game or football.
Steve Garcia
May 16, 2013
When we were playing football at Arizona Western College our freshman year, Chuck had that rare gift of taking over a game and winning it! My prayers and thoughts to the Muncie family during this incredible time of change. - Steve Garcia
Doug Miller
May 16, 2013
I grew up hearing all the stories about Uniontowns' past athletes and teams and I actually got to watch Chuck Muncie play. He will be missed!
P. Renee Johnson
May 16, 2013
My deepest sympathy and condolences to the Muncie family at this difficult time of sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with you now. May God be with you and show you his kindness and mercy to help you at this time of need. Make those special memories of Chuck stay with you for comfort, strength and eternal peace. A job well done and thanks for all you have given to us.
Regan Velez
May 16, 2013
Chuck, I still have your football cards, and lots of memories of your great runs! Rest in peace my friend, thanks for all you gave us!
Larry McGurgan
May 16, 2013
Never forget the fun times we had in school....especially the track and field meets.... Miss you my friend
Sharon Collins-Davis
May 16, 2013
May you rest in peace. A true athlete and champion on and off the field.
I used to b a charger cheerleader while chuck played in SD
Anthony Johnson
May 15, 2013
Keep running big man,you hit the hole.True NFL player never leave us.
susan carrier
May 15, 2013
so sorry four
monica bynum
May 15, 2013
Always sad to say goodbye to old friends...A job well done...Rest in peace....
Melanie Mazza Phillips
May 15, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Chuck's family. Your Red Raider family will sorely miss you.
John Abel
May 15, 2013
I still have fond memories of our high country Yosemite cross country trip 5 of us did in winter of 75.We skied up tioga Road 14 miles and I was whining about the uphill and during a rest Chuck took me aside and said no matter how much I complained I was still have to do the trip.It registered and I had a blast the next few days.Chuck skied up the road the first day right before dusk from our camp about a 1/4 mile and when the sun went down the ski trail turned to ice.We had a blast going up and then flying down it on a dark cold High Sierra night with no humans around for miles.Never felt so alive as that night and it was Chuck who got me to enjoy it.I'll miss him a great deal.Also I have to thank Chuck for turning me onto Bobby Bland.
May 15, 2013
I am so sorry for your great loss. May the God who is 'binding up the broken hearted and comforting those mourning' be of comfort to you during this most difficult time. (Isa. 61:1,2). Again, my deepest sympathies.
Jim Lebowitz
May 15, 2013
A great Uniontown Athlete. Rest in peace.
anthony l. rabatin
May 15, 2013
i am deeply honored and forever greatfull that harry vance "chuck" muncie called me "his friend..thank you for letting me be in that circle..rest well "my friend"..
Walt Haynes
May 15, 2013
We go all the way back and have come all the way forward, dear friend. As I've told you before, it has been and will always be my privilege to be your friend. Rest in peace,, big brother. Job well done.
Wendy McCollum
May 15, 2013
May he rest in peace! Condolences to the family!
May 15, 2013
Words, however kind,
can't mend your heartache,
but those who care and,
share your loss wish you,
comfort and peace of mind.
May you find strength,
in the love of family,
and in the warm embrace,
of friends.
Deepest Sympathy,
Resa Boydston
May 15, 2013
Obedient humans will soon receive the full benefit of Jesus' ransom sacrifice.
This will occur under the rule of the Kingdom for which the upright have long prayed, saying:
“Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come.
Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (Matthew 6:9, 10)
FootballTopFan
May 15, 2013
We would like to extend our condolences and sympathy to the family and friends of Chuck Muncie.
Fans enjoyed watching this big man run the ball.
Rest In Peace(RIP)!!!
Marian D'Auria
May 15, 2013
We have lots of happy memories of growing up in UT with you & also, keeping in touch over these years! Our deepest sympathy to your family...Rest In Peace, dear ole friend~Love,Marian D'Auria & Jimmy Daniels
Mary Schiffbauer Machesky
May 15, 2013
When an old friend dies, we long to go back to those days long ago when our childhoods held such glory. Chuck, your glory is now here. Eternal Rest Be Yours.
Ice Young
May 15, 2013
As a former neighbor in 1978-79. He was definately a neat person to be around. Especially during my brief tryout with the Saints. Missed those days. RIP Brother. It was GREAT being around Chuck, Tony and Wes. Always Ice
Susan Truninger
May 15, 2013
R.I.P. Chucky. Now u can be with your childhood neighbor Arnie. 2 gifted athletes gone too soon.. Loved & missed forever !
larry thomas
May 15, 2013
growing up around you, even tho i was older, i'll always remember u. rip my brother
Dave Armstrong
May 15, 2013
The best part of watching football during the 80's NFL gameday was enjoying San Diego compete. Thank you (Mr Muncie) and peaceful journey.
May 15, 2013
Thank you Chuck.
GS in SD
william Fowler
May 15, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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