Former Green Bay Packers center Ken Bowman, who played on three straight championship teams, dies at 81

NEW DELHI: Ken Bowman, former center for the Green Bay Packers and a key player in the team's success during the 1960s, passed away at the age of 81 in Oro Valley, Arizona. The Packers announced his death, noting that Bowman died of natural causes, although the specific details were not disclosed.
Bowman played a crucial role in the Packers' success during his tenure from 1964 to 1973.He contributed to three consecutive championship teams, winning the NFL title in 1965 and the Super Bowl in the following two seasons. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the historic "Ice Bowl" in 1967, where the Packers secured a 21-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in extremely frigid conditions.

One of the defining moments of Bowman's career was his involvement in blocking for Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr's game-winning 1-yard touchdown sneak during the "Ice Bowl." This victory propelled the Packers to the Super Bowl, where they emerged triumphant against the Oakland Raiders.
Drafted by the Packers from the University of Wisconsin in the eighth round of the 1964 draft, Bowman played his entire career in Green Bay, participating in 123 games and making 107 starts. In addition to his on-field contributions, Bowman served as the Packers' player representative and held the role of NFL Players Association vice president during part of his career.
Ken Bowman's legacy remains intertwined with the Packers' success in the 1960s, and his contributions to the team are remembered by fans and the football community.
(With AP inputs)