Jack Kemp dies of cancer, 73

Jack Kemp, football star and politician, dies (MyWay, May 3, 2009):

"Jack Kemp, the former pro quarterback who turned fame on the gridiron into a career in national politics and a crusade for lower taxes, has died of cancer at age 73 [yesterday evening].

... Former President George W. Bush expressed his sorrow after hearing of Kemp's death.

"Laura and I are saddened by the death of Jack Kemp," he said. "Jack will be remembered for his significant contributions to the Reagan revolution and his steadfast dedication to conservative principles during his long and distinguished career in public service. Jack's wife Joanne and the rest of the Kemp family are in our thoughts and prayers."

... Kemp was a 17th round 1957 NFL draft pick by the Detroit Lions, but was cut before the season began ... [He] led Buffalo to the 1964 and 1965 AFL Championships, and won the league's most valuable player award in 1965.

Kemp was born in California to Christian Scientist parents ... [but] became a Presbyterian after marrying his college sweetheart, Joanne Main.

... Through his political life, Kemp's positions spanned the social spectrum: He opposed abortion and supported school prayer, yet appealed to liberals with his outreach toward minorities and compassion for the poor. He pushed for immigration reform to include a guest-worker program and status for the illegal immigrants already here.