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| | Thursday, November 4 | |||||
| CHICAGO -- Walter Payton's popularity and his impact on the city where he played will be on display Saturday at Soldier Field when the stadium hosts a memorial service for the NFL's career rushing leader.
The Hall of Famer died Monday of bile duct cancer at age 45. A private, invitation-only service will take place Friday in suburban South Barrington near his home. On Saturday, a public memorial service will begin at noon CT in the stadium where he thrilled so many fans. "We don't know what the response will be," Bears president Ted Phillips said. "With the weather cooperating, it could fill the stadium." Soldier Field seats 66,944. The Bears have secured a video jumbotron scoreboard for the occasion and have planned for an auxiliary viewing area should the stadium be filled. Organ donor cards will be distributed throughout the stadium, and Payton's foundation has asked fans attending the services to bring toys for Christmas distribution. Saturday will be proclaimed "Walter Payton Day" across the city. The Bears will wear patches honoring Payton on their uniforms for Sunday's game at Green Bay. The team will attend the Soldier Field services Saturday before departing for the game. | ALSO SEE Payton, NFL's career rushing leader, dies at 45
Biographer: Payton was at peace but fought to the end
Chicago bids farewell to beloved star
Video tribute to Walter Payton
Walter Payton career highlights
Walter Payton career statistics
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