Former NFL quarterback Doug Flutie's parents died within an hour of each other today, according to ESPN. Dick and Joan had been married for 56 years.

Flutie wrote a statement about the passing of his parents on Facebook: "It is with a heavy heart that I am making this statement. This morning my family experienced the tragic loss of my father, Dick, and mother, Joan. My Dad had been ill and died of a heart attack and my Mom, less than an hour later had a sudden heart attack and passed away. They say you can die of a broken heart and I believe it. I would like to honor my parents for all that they did throughout my and my brothers' and sister's lives. My parents were always there for their children, from the days my Dad coached us as kids and my Mom would work the concession stands, through to this morning. The most important part of their 56 years of marriage was providing opportunities to their children. They were incredible parents and Grandparents and my family and I will miss them both. On behalf of me and the entire Flutie family, I would like to thank you all for your well wishes and prayers during this difficult time."

Flutie, 53, is best known for his Hail Mary pass against the Miami Hurricanes when he lead the Boston College Eagles to a miracle win in 1984. The quarterback also won the Heisman Trophy the same year. Flutie played 12 seasons in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears and the San Diego Chargers.

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