Mike Spivey Passed Away: Honoring a Football Legends Legacy and Impact

May 2024 · 7 minute read

The life and impact of Mike Spivey, a former football player, are explored following his recent passing on June 26, 2023.

Despite enduring a prolonged illness, Spivey’s legacy remains rooted in his remarkable strength, resilience, and unwavering faith.

Mike Spivey Passed Away

We are deeply saddened to announce the loss of Mike Spivey, a former football player whose influence on the University of Colorado football program was truly profound.

Following a courageous battle with a long-term illness, he passed away on June 26, 2023.

The CU Buffaloes will greatly miss Spivey’s invaluable contributions and unwavering commitment.

As both a player and a mentor, Spivey played an integral role within the team, leaving an unforgettable mark on the program and the lives of those he touched.

Throughout his life, he epitomized the spirit of a Buffalo, showcasing exceptional skills, determination, and earning well-deserved recognition for his accomplishments on the field.

His remarkable speed, strength, and talent made him an unstoppable force.

Even after retiring from playing, Spivey continued his involvement with the University of Colorado in a different capacity, serving as a team chaplain for an impressive 14 years.

His unwavering support and guidance provided comfort and inspiration to numerous student-athletes, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Spivey’s devotion extended far beyond football.

He embraced his faith and devoted himself to ministry, sharing his wisdom and speaking passionately about scripture.

Through his words, he touched the hearts of many, leaving a profound impression.

With his infectious smile and willingness to assist others, he became a cherished figure in the community.

His kindness and compassion knew no bounds, positively influencing everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

The passing of Mike Spivey leaves an irreplaceable void felt deeply by his family, friends, and the entire University of Colorado football community.

However, his legacy of strength, resilience, and faith will continue to inspire generations to come.

Who was Mike Spivey?

Mike Spivey, a former football player, achieved remarkable success in both college and professional football.

From 1973 to 1976, he played as a defensive back for the University of Colorado (CU) Buffaloes, specializing in the corner and “Apache” back positions.

Spivey’s exceptional speed, strength, and skill on the field earned him numerous accolades during his college career, including being named first-team All-Big Eight Conference and receiving an honorable mention All-American recognition from the Associated Press in his senior year.

Born on March 10, 1954, in Houston, Texas, Spivey attended Carver High School in Aldine before joining the University of Colorado.

He leaves behind his wife Debra Spivey, his daughter Nicole (Chris) Drzewiecki, his son Joshua (Andrea) Spivey, and their cherished puppy, Mercy.

Spivey made significant contributions to CU’s 1976 Big Eight championship team and participated in prestigious bowl games such as the Astro-Bluebonnet Bowl and the Orange Bowl.

In the 1977 NFL draft, the Chicago Bears selected Spivey in the second round.

He enjoyed a six-year career in the NFL, playing for the Bears, Oakland Raiders, New Orleans Saints, and Atlanta Falcons.

It was during his time with the Bears that Spivey experienced a transformative journey, discovering faith and engaging in Bible study, influenced by his teammate Walter Payton.

Following his retirement from professional football, Spivey settled in Colorado and pursued a career in ministry.

He maintained a close connection with his alma mater, serving as the team chaplain for the CU Buffaloes for an impressive 14 years.

Additionally, he mentored numerous student-athletes at the university.

Spivey was admired for his inspirational speaking abilities and profound understanding of scripture, earning respect for his unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to his beliefs.

What Happened to Mike Spivey?

The passing of Mike Spivey, following a prolonged illness, represents a substantial loss and a cause of mourning for his family, friends, and the University of Colorado football community.

Coping with the departure of a loved one is never easy, and the weight of his passing may be an immense burden for those who knew and cared for him.

The impact of his demise will be deeply felt by those whose lives he influenced, and it is natural to experience profound sadness during such times.

The loss of Mike Spivey undoubtedly brings great sorrow to his family.

The absence of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotionally charged experience, and the void left behind is often keenly felt by family members.

The passing of Mike Spivey will leave a lasting impact on his family as they grieve the loss of a beloved spouse, father, and family member.

The grief and sorrow they are currently experiencing during this challenging period attest to the profound significance of his presence in their lives.

During this time of sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Debra Spivey, his children Nicole (Chris) Drzewiecki and Joshua (Andrea) Spivey, as well as their cherished puppy, Mercy.

May they find comfort in the memories they shared with Mike and draw solace from the understanding that his spirit will endure within the hearts of all those he touched.

Mike Spivey Cause of Death

The specific details regarding Mike Spivey’s cause of death have not been disclosed.

Nonetheless, Mike Spivey undeniably possessed an inspiring spirit.

Throughout his lifetime, he exemplified qualities that deeply impacted numerous individuals and left a lasting impression.

As a football player, he exhibited exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and a strong competitive drive, serving as a source of inspiration for his teammates and fellow athletes.

Beyond his accomplishments on the field, he embraced his faith and actively engaged in ministry, utilizing his profound understanding of scripture and his powerful oratory skills to inspire and uplift others.

His dedication to mentoring student-athletes and his involvement with the University of Colorado football program demonstrated his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him.

The legacy of Mike Spivey as an inspiring individual will continue to resonate and motivate those fortunate enough to have known him.

Mike Spivey Obituary

Today, we gather to remember and honor the remarkable life of Mike Spivey, a beloved individual who touched us in countless ways.

With heavy hearts, we celebrate his impactful presence in the University of Colorado football program and beyond.

Mike, you embodied strength and resilience, both on and off the field.

Your extraordinary football talents were matched only by your unwavering determination and spirit.

Your speed, agility, and remarkable skills left spectators in awe, inspiring generations of athletes to strive for greatness.

However, it was not just your athletic prowess that set you apart; it was your character and the light you emanated.

Your infectious smile, genuine kindness, and willingness to lend a helping hand endeared you to all fortunate enough to cross paths with you.

As a teammate and mentor, you left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those you touched.

Your leadership qualities inspired others to pursue excellence and embrace teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship.

Your dedication to your teammates, both on and off the field, will always be remembered.

Beyond your football achievements, your faith was the foundation of your life.

Your deep connection to your beliefs guided your actions and inspired others to embark on their own spiritual journeys.

Your knowledge of scripture and your ability to eloquently share your faith left a profound impact on all who heard you.

Mike, you were more than an athlete or mentor; you were a cherished friend and family member.

Your love and devotion to your wife, children, and loved ones were evident in every aspect of your life.

The love and support you showered upon your family will remain a wellspring of strength as they navigate this profound loss.

As we bid you farewell, we do so with gratitude for the legacy you leave behind.

Your memory will forever be etched in our hearts, reminding us to approach life with tenacity, grace, and faith, just as you did.

We celebrate the impact you made, the lives you touched, and the inspiration you provided.

Your spirit will continue to shine as a guiding light for all who aspire to greatness and embrace the power of faith.

Rest in peace, dear Mike Spivey. May your soul find eternal tranquility, knowing that you have made an indelible mark on this world and that your legacy will endure for generations to come.

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