CFL - Ron Lancaster dies at age 69

It was reported by TSN and Rogers Sportsnet on August 6, 2008 that Lancaster was battling lung cancer. At time of publication Lancaster had undergone several weeks of radiation and chemotherapy treatment.

Lancaster had previously battled cancer in 2004, just after he was named GM of the club by new owner Bob Young.

Lancaster was positive in his outlook stating "Five years ago, I survived a battle with cancer, and now we have another battle on our hands. The goal is to get this taken care of and move forward just like I did five years ago. We will approach this the same way as then and I thank you all in advance for your kindness as I am on my path to recovery."

However, Lancaster died 6 weeks later in Hamiton, Ontario on September 17, 2008 at the age of 69.

Ron Lancaster, led Saskatchewan to the Grey Cup title, coached two cup winners and was enshrined in the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.

Lancaster spent 16 of his 19 seasons as CFL player with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, helping the team to the 1966 Grey Cup title. He was selected the CFL's Most Outstanding Player after the 1970 and 1976 seasons.

He coached the Edmonton Eskimos to the 1991 CFL championship and then took the Hamilton Tigers-Cats to the Grey Cup title in 1999. He had 142 coaching wins, fifth on the CFL's all-time list, over 16 seasons.

He was elected to the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1982 and the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame three years later.

A husband, father, CFL player, coach, broadcaster and mentor... Ron Lancaster leaves behind many friends - he was loved by many.

the Little General, Ron Lancaster (1938-2008)