
Former Griz Joe Klucewich Passes Away
[UPDATE: 2:34 PM on 1/15]
There will be a public service held on Saturday, February 22nd at 10 am in the Adams Center.
It's been a rough stretch for University of Montana Athletics. Back on New Year's Eve, former Lady Griz and trailblazing star Malia Kipp passed away surprisingly to many. More bad news hit UM yesterday, January 14, when the Griz Football page announced the death of one of their own.
Joe Klucewich passed away this week per the Griz Football Twitter page. Klucewich played for the Montana Grizzlies from 1980-1984 and alongside his brother in 1983 and 1984. Joe's nephew Jace Klucewich of Frenchtown is on the current Montana Grizzlies team and his niece Jaxie Klucewich played for the Montana Grizzlies Softball team from 2020 to 2023. Jaxie chimed in on Twitter to show her love and condolences for her Uncle Joe.
Fans sent their condolences via Twitter as well.
Joe Klucewich was such a good person. I still remember candid conversations he would have with me on the sidelines. He always left a genuine impression on me. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones! - glawton21

Grizzly Football SID Eric Taber emailed "Not only was Joe was a respected football player and a well-loved member of the Griz family, he was the embodiment of a Montana football man. After his time at UM he went on to make a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals through teaching, coaching and the ministry. He'll be sorely missed by all who knew him."
We offer our thoughts and prayers to Joe's family, friends and the entire Montana Grizzly Football family.
Other related reading
Griz Coach Bobby Hauck Elected As American Football Coaches Association President
Gallery: The Last 23 FCS National Championship Winners
Former Griz Signs With ACC School, Griz Add Big 12 Product
Every Montana-Born NFL Player (1922-1949)
Gallery Credit: Ace Sauerwein
More From KGRZ Missoula








