John Beake, Architect of Broncos' Super Bowl Success, Dies at 87
The former general manager was instrumental in building the Denver Broncos teams that reached five Super Bowls and won two championships.
John Beake, a pivotal figure in the history of the Denver Broncos and a two-time Super Bowl winner, has died at the age of 87. His passing was announced by the Broncos organization, which lauded his significant contributions during his more than two decades with the team.
Beake served as the Broncos' general manager for 14 years, a period marked by the team's consistent success. Under his leadership, the Broncos appeared in five Super Bowls, ultimately securing two championships. His tenure also saw the crucial 1983 trade for quarterback John Elway, who went on to become the winningest quarterback in franchise history.
Prior to his impactful role with the Broncos, Beake also contributed to the Kansas City Chiefs' success, winning a third Super Bowl as a coach during his six years with the team in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His extensive career in football spanned over four decades and included coaching stints at Penn State, Colorado State, and the New York Military Academy, as well as a role with the New Orleans Saints.
After his work on the sidelines and in team management, Beake served as the managing director of football operations for NFL Europe from 2001 to 2003, retiring at the conclusion of his term. He is survived by his wife, Marcia, his sons Chip and Chris, and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jerilyn.
