Former Packers K Eddie Garcia’s Mysterious Death at 65 Leaves Fans Searching for Answers

It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who’s been part of a team’s fabric — and Eddie Garcia’s passing on June 5 in Poygan, Wisconsin, at age 65 hit home hard for Packers fans. Though his time on the field might not have set records—after all, stepping in for a Hall of Famer like Jan Stenerud isn’t a small feat—Garcia’s impact stretched well beyond those footy boots. Drafted back in ’82, his NFL journey was a rollercoaster of promise and injuries, but he found new ways to contribute later on, joining the Packers’ board in 2021 and lending his expertise in sales, marketing, and community efforts. His story reminds me that sometimes the real game happens off the turf, in the boardrooms and behind the scenes, shaping a legacy that lasts. LEARN MORE

Garcia served as a member of the team’s board of directors.Former Packers kicker Eddie Garcia died June 5 at his home in Poygan, Wisconsin, the team announced. He was 65.Garcia handled kickoffs in 1983 before taking over for Hall of Famer Jan Stenerud in 1984. Garcia kicked in seven games, going only 3-of-9 on field goals and 14-of-15 on extra points before he went on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, and Al Del Greco replaced him.A retired senior director with Oshkosh Defense of the Oshkosh Corporation, Garcia was elected to the Packers’ board in 2021 and served on the sales and marketing and Green Bay Packers Foundation committees.Garcia was waived before the 1985 season.The Packers drafted him in the 10th round in 1982, and he spent three seasons in the NFL. He pulled a muscle in the preseason of his rookie season, landing on injured reserve.