Packers Make Statement on the Passing of Former President Bob Harlan

The Green Bay Packers have lost a giant in the world of professional football. Bob Harlan, the former President and CEO of the Packers from 1989 to 2008, passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 89 following a brief illness. His passing marks the end of an era for the franchise, one that Harlan helped shape and lead into a new chapter of success. The legacy he leaves behind extends far beyond the football field, and his impact on the team and the city of Green Bay will never be forgotten.

Packers’ Statement on Bob Harlan’s Passing

In the wake of this loss, the Packers organization released a heartfelt statement, expressing the profound sense of grief felt by the team, the fans, and the entire community.

“The Packers family was saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Harlan,” said Ed Policy, the current President and CEO of the team. “Bob was a visionary leader whose impact on the franchise was transformational. From his inspired hiring of Ron Wolf to turn around the club’s on-field fortunes, to his tireless work to redevelop Lambeau Field, Bob restored the Packers to competitive excellence during his tenure and helped ensure our unique and treasured flagship NFL franchise was on sound footing for sustained generational success.”

Harlan’s leadership and legacy have touched countless lives. He wasn’t just a president; he was the heart and soul of the Packers during a crucial period, and his presence will forever be ingrained in the franchise’s history.

Resurgence on the Field Under Harlan’s Leadership

When Bob Harlan took over as President and CEO in 1989, the Packers were a team in disarray. But under his guidance, the Packers quickly returned to relevance, thanks to strategic decisions like hiring Ron Wolf as the team’s general manager. The results were immediate, with the team going on to post a 152-88 record from 1993-2007, marking the best record in the NFL during that time.

One of the most defining moments of Harlan’s tenure was Super Bowl XXXI, where the Packers returned the Lombardi Trophy to Green Bay. The victory represented the culmination of years of hard work and planning, and Harlan’s unwavering vision helped the team achieve that ultimate goal. But Harlan’s influence wasn’t just about winning championships. Under his leadership, the Packers enjoyed 13 straight seasons with a .500 or better record, an incredible achievement in the free agency era that reflected the sustained success he built during his time as president.

The Transformation of Lambeau Field

Harlan’s crowning achievement off the field was overseeing the $295 million redevelopment of Lambeau Field, which was completed at the start of the 2003 season. The renovation of this historic venue ensured that the Packers would continue to have a state-of-the-art facility that could house the team for years to come. Lambeau Field isn’t just a stadium; it’s the spiritual home of the Packers, and thanks to Harlan’s leadership, it was reborn as a modern-day fortress, strengthening the team’s financial footing for the future.

Through his efforts to modernize Lambeau, Harlan not only helped secure the Packers’ place in the NFL landscape but also honored the rich history of the franchise and its beloved fan base. Lambeau Field continues to be a symbol of the enduring legacy that Harlan helped create.

A Leader in the Community

Off the field, Bob Harlan and his wife, Madeline, were pillars of the Green Bay community. The couple was deeply involved in a wide range of charitable endeavors and served on numerous boards. Harlan’s contributions to both the city and the state were numerous, and his impact extended far beyond football. He was a man who believed in giving back, and his generosity was felt by many.

Both Harlan and Madeline were the recipients of multiple honors, both locally and nationally. In 1997, he was honored by his alma mater, Marquette University, for his contributions to the community and the game of football. Harlan also authored his autobiography, Green and Golden Moments: Bob Harlan and the Green Bay Packers, in 2007, reflecting on his years with the team and the journey that brought him to the pinnacle of success.

Survived by His Family

Harlan is survived by his wife Madeline, his children Kevin, Bryan, and Michael, and their families, including grandchildren who carry on his legacy. The Packers organization has expressed their deepest sympathies to the Harlan family, and the entire football community shares in their grief.

“Bob Harlan’s loss is felt by so many,” said Packers coach Mike McCarthy. “He was not just a leader of the Packers, but a leader in the community. He helped lay the foundation for everything this team stands for today.”

An Enduring Legacy

As the Green Bay Packers move forward, Bob Harlan’s influence will continue to echo through the halls of Lambeau Field. His vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence helped shape the franchise into what it is today. The Packers’ success in the 1990s and 2000s, coupled with their financial stability and commitment to the community, are a direct result of Harlan’s efforts.

Harlan was much more than just a president; he was a beacon of integrity, passion, and love for the game of football. His contributions to the Packers and to the Green Bay community will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Packers players, coaches, and fans.

Arrangements for his memorial service are pending, and the Packers organization will continue to honor his memory as they move forward in the years to come. The legacy of Bob Harlan will forever be a part of the fabric of the Green Bay Packers, and his contributions will always be cherished by those who had the privilege of working alongside him.