R.I.P. Karl Kassulke

by Gonzo on Oct 31, 2008 2:12 PM CDT in Vikings Comment 2 comments

The Vikings have lost another member of their family far too soon, as former Pro Bowl safety Karl Kassulke passed away on Monday. He was 67 years old.

Like his teammate Wally Hilgenberg, who also passed away recently, Kassulke was originally drafted by the Detroit Lions after his days as a standout at Drake University. He was selected in the 11th round with the 152nd overall pick. (To contrast that a bit to the modern draft, the 152nd overall pick now generally falls somewhere in the late fourth/early fifth round). However, he was waived by the Lions and picked up by Minnesota. He went on to play 10 seasons for the Vikings, including starting at safety in Super Bowl IV and being named to the Pro Bowl in 1970.

Unfortunately, as he was heading for training camp in 1973, Karl was involved in a motorcycle accident. He was paralyzed from the waist down, and never played football again. While he was rehabbing his injuries, he fell in love with his rehab nurse, Sue. The two of them got married, and had been together for 33 years when Karl passed.

In addition to Sue, Karl is survived by his three sons, Kurt, Kory, and Christopher, three grandchildren, a brother, two sisters, and countless other family members.

Our condolences go out to the Kassulke family in their time of need.

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Great Tribute

I wrote on a comment to purplegrey’s fanpost. So you can read there. Karl served on the board of directors for WINGS Outreach and organization founded by my friend and where Karl found friendship and spiritual support. Karl was a very active disabled person and stayed in Minnesota after his career. He gave his heart to many charities as much as he did on the football field
My friend will be with Sue during a tribute to Karl at this weeks Texans game. Karl requested memorials be sent to:
WINGS Outreach
PO Box 49983
Blaine, MN 55449 (651) 402-6277

If you have a disabled friend or relative looking for friendship, activities, spiritual support. This is where Karl found a lot of new friends and poured his heart into the program. The stories my friend tells are hilarious. Karl had a wonderful sense of humor.

PS This post was not a solicitation by the organization. It is my personal post in tribute to Karl Kassulke.

by CitrusFLViking on Oct 31, 2008 2:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs