BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe played for Bill Walsh as a member of the San Francisco 49ers and was later an assistant coach under Walsh at Stanford.

"I am deeply saddened with the news of Bill Walsh's passing," Holmoe said Monday. "Many of his players, coaches and friends, including myself, have known of his condition and have had very special moments in recent months sharing our feelings with him and reminiscing of wonderful times. Bill had an incredible impact on me as my coach and in later years as my mentor and my friend. Coach presented me with opportunities that opened many doors for me both professionally and personally. He was always there for me when I needed him, and I will miss him dearly. The sporting world knew him as a great coach; I was fortunate to know him as much, much more."