Ex-Colts, Oklahoma State Kicker Cary Blanchard Dies At 47

Cary Blanchard, a former Indianapolis Colts and Oklahoma State Cowboys kicker, died Tuesday at the age of 47.

Ex-Colts, Oklahoma State Kicker Cary Blanchard Dies At 47

Mindi Blanchard confirmed her ex-husband’s death. She stated Cary passed away unexpectedly of what she believes was a major heart attack, but added that an autopsy has not been performed.

Cary Blanchard lived near Edmond, Oklahoma, a suburb of Oklahoma City, although his wife said he died in Mabank, Texas, three days after his mother’s funeral there.

With the Colts, Blanchard was an Associated Press All-Pro in 1996 and a Pro Bowl selection in 1997. During his nine-year NFL career, he also played with the New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, Washington Redskins, New York Giants and Arizona Cardinals. Throughout his career, he made 165-of-214 field goals overall.

Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay expressed his condolences to Blanchard’s family on Twitter:

A three-time All-Big Eight selection (1988-90), Blanchard finished his Oklahoma State career with 331 points.

He is survived by his son Blake, and Blake’s wife Tia, his daughter, Bayli and his son, Braeden. 

Mindi said the funeral will be held Friday at Church of the Servant in Oklahoma City.

“Cary was a family man who loved his children and his family more than anything,” Mindi said.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – SEPTEMBER 8: Cary Blanchard #14 of the Indianapolis Colts kicks against the New Jersey Jets at Giants Stadium on September 8, 1996 in East Rutherford New Jersey. (Photo by Andy Lyons/ Getty Images)