Michael J. Holovak

Michael J. Holovak


Michael J. Holovak, 88, of Wimauma, Fla., died Sunday.

A star football player at the former Lansford High School, he had a long and distinguished career in college and professional football.

Holovak was an All American selection at Boston College, playing in both the Sugar Bowl and the Orange Bowl. After Naval service as skipper of a PT boat in the South Pacific during World War II, he played professional football for the Los Angles Rams and the Chicago Bears.

He later returned to Boston College to become head football coach. In 1960, he was hired as the first Director of Player Personnel for the Boston Patriots. He was named the team's head coach in 1961 and continued in that capacity through 1968.

Holovak later served as general manager and president of player personnel for the Houston Oilers, now Tennessee Titans, retiring in 1998.

Surviving are his wife, Pauline; two daughters, Michele, wife of David E. Harrison of Gloucester, and Cindy, wife of Michael Oatess of South Tampa, Fla.; and three grandchildren.

He was was also preceded in death by a daughter, Terrie Ann Holovak.

His funeral service will be held in Chestnut Hill, Mass.