Dave Wilcox obituary

David (Dave) Wilcox was an American professional football player who was a linebacker with the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL) from 1964 through 1974. Wilcox was born on September 29, 1942 and died on April 19, 2023 at age 80.

A 2000 Hall of Fame inductee, Wilcox spent his entire 11-year career with the 49ers, who inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 2009. He was selected to seven Pro Bowls, was a two-time All-Pro and the owner of one of the greatest nicknames in sports history.

While becoming one of the NFL’s most decorated players, Wilcox helped turn the 49ers from one of the league’s worst teams to one of its best.

After winning just four games during his rookie season, Wilcox helped lead the 49ers to three consecutive division titles from 1970-72. The 49ers went to consecutive NFC Championship games in 1970-71 only to fall to Tom Landry’s Cowboys in both contests.

Nicknamed ‘The Intimidator’ for his aggressive style of play, Wilcox was a kind, humble and gracious man in all other aspects of life, Hall of Fame president Jim Porter in a tribute to the legendary linebacker.

Wilcox is a graduate of Vale High School in eastern Oregon. He began his college football career at Boise Junior College (now Boise State University) and earned junior college All-America honors.

Wilcox entered the NFL in 1964 as a third-round selection (No. 29 overall) in the NFL Draft. He chose to sign with the 49ers after being a sixth-round pick (No. 46) of the Houston Oilers in the AFL draft.

Wilcox is survived by his wife Merle and sons Joshua David Wilcox and Justin Wilcox.