Greg Lotysz Obituary: A Former New York Jets Player Greg Lotysz Death Cause Revealed

Greg Lotysz, a former UND All-American offensive lineman and New York Jets player, passed away on Friday, August 11, 2023, at the age of 49. He was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, friend, and mentor to many. He was also a cherished member of the Grand Forks community, where he lived and worked for most of his life. In this article, we will honor his life and legacy by sharing some of his achievements, challenges, and memories.

A standout athlete

Greg Lotysz was born on April 9, 1974, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. He grew up playing hockey and football, excelling in both sports. He attended Hammarskjold High School, where he was a dominant force on the offensive line. He also played basketball, but his intensity sometimes got him into trouble. He was once ejected from a game for fouling too hard.

He was recruited by UND in the mid-1990s after a UND hockey graduate assistant coach had known the Lotysz family and tipped off the football staff. Roger Thomas and Bubba Schweigert, who were then UND’s head coach and position coach respectively, went to see him play in a high school basketball game in Thunder Bay. They were impressed by his size, speed, and agility.

Lotysz played at UND from 1995 to 1998, earning All-America honors in 1998. He was a key part of the offensive line that helped the Fighting Sioux win the North Central Conference title in 1995 and make two postseason appearances. He was also an academic all-conference selection in 1998.

Greg Lotysz was drafted third overall in the 1999 Canadian Football League Draft by the BC Lions but chose to sign with the New York Jets as an undrafted NFL free agent. During training camp in 2000, he suffered a severe left knee injury that required surgery. Complications from the surgery resulted in two postsurgical infections that ended his football career.

A giant of a man

Despite his career-ending injury, Lotysz did not let it define him. He moved back to Grand Forks with his wife Heather and their children Peyton and Paige. He worked as a sales manager for Rydell Auto Center and later as a business development manager for Lithia Ford Lincoln of Grand Forks.

Greg Lotysz was also involved in various community activities and causes. He coached youth football and hockey teams, volunteered at Sharon Lutheran Church, and supported local charities such as Special Olympics and United Way. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and compassion.

Lotysz was also a mentor to many young athletes and students. He shared his wisdom and experience with them, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and overcome their challenges. He was especially proud of his son Peyton, who followed in his footsteps and played as an offensive lineman for UND.

He had a larger-than-life personality that matched his physical stature. He had a booming voice, a hearty laugh, and a warm smile. He loved nature, fishing, hunting, and camping. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was always ready to lend a hand or offer a hug.

Greg was also a man of faith who trusted God’s plan for his life. He faced his health issues with courage and optimism. He never complained or gave up hope. He inspired many people with his strength and resilience.

A legacy of love

Greg passed away on Friday morning at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks after being admitted to the intensive care unit on July 30. The cause of his death has not been disclosed yet.

He is survived by his wife Heather; his son Peyton; his daughter Paige; his parents John and Judy; his brother Jeff; his sister Jennifer; and many other relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 15, at Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. at the same location.

Greg Lotysz will be remembered as a giant of a man who touched many lives with his love. His legacy will live on through his family, friends, and community.

Quick Summary

• Greg Lotysz was a former UND All-American offensive lineman and New York Jets player who passed away on Friday, August 11, 2023, at the age of 49.
• He was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, friend, and mentor to many.
• He was also a cherished member of the Grand Forks community, where he lived and worked for most of his life.
• Greg Lotysz was involved in various community activities and causes, such as coaching youth sports, volunteering at church, and supporting local charities.
• He had a larger-than-life personality that matched his physical stature. He had a booming voice, a hearty laugh, and a warm smile.
• He loved nature, fishing, hunting, and camping. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
• Greg Lotysz was a man of faith who trusted God’s plan for his life. He faced his health issues with courage and optimism. He inspired many people with his strength and resilience.

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