(Sep 29, 1942 – Apr 19, 2023) Dave Wilcox played his way from eastern Oregon into the National Football League Hall of Fame as an intimidating lineman and linebacker.

Born in 1942, Wilcox grew up in Vale and graduated in 1960 having led the Vikings to three state title games, with wins in ’58 and ‘59. On his way to 6-foot-3, 240 pounds, Wilcox played two seasons at Boise Junior College, (now Boise State) as an offensive and defensive lineman before transferring to Oregon for the 1962 season. Oregon went 6-3-1 in ’62, losing only to Texas, Ohio State and Oregon State.

In ’63, the Ducks featured quarterback Bob Berry as well as defensive back Mel Renfro and finished 8-3, including a 21-14 win over Southern Methodist in the Sun Bowl.

Wilcox played in the Hula Bowl following his senior season and was voted outstanding lineman. He also played in two other college all-star games before being selected in both the NFL and AFL drafts.

Wilcox signed with the San Francisco 49ers in 1964 and played there for 11 seasons, being named to the Pro Bowl team seven times and the All-NFL team four times at linebacker. In his 11 seasons, the 49ers reached the playoffs three times, 1970-72, thanks primarily to the team’s defense. They were eliminated from the playoffs by the Dallas Cowboys each season.

Wilcox was voted to the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1983 and the University of Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1993. He was enshrined in the NFL Hall of Fame in 2000.