Jim Mandich "Celebration Of Life" Set For Wednesday
MIAMI (CBS4) - The Miami Dolphins, former players, and fans will be given their final opportunity to pay tribute to former Dolphin player and broadcaster Jim "Mad Dog" Mandich Wednesday night at Sun Life Stadium.
The public tribute is more of a celebration of Mandich's life than a memorial service. His family held a private memorial for family and friends last weekend.
Mandich lost his battle with cancer last Tuesday. In addition to playing for the team during the legendary "Perfect Season", Mandich also held court in the radio broadcast booth, broadcasting the games on local radio each weekend.
"We will miss him dearly," the family said in a statement released by the Dolphins. "We thank the fans and the media for their ongoing support and their respect for our family's privacy during this time."
Wednesday night's activities will include former players including: Nick Buoniconti, Bob Griese, Larry Little, and Dwight Stephenson among other members of the Dolphins perfect season team. Former head coach Don Shula will also be part of the ceremony.
CBS4's Kim Bokamper will also be at the memorial and will have a wrap-up of the events for CBS4 News at 11 pm. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., enter through Gate E.
Instead of flowers, the family is also inviting donations to the Dolphins Cycling Challenge that benefits the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer. Donations can be made online at www.ridedcc.com or checks can be made out to:
The Mandich Fund
c/o The Miami Dolphins Foundation
Sun Life Stadium
347 Don Shula Drive
Miami Gardens, FL 33056
