Minnesota Vikings President Mark Wilf Dies at 62: NFL Mourns Loss of Visionary Leader

Minnesota Vikings President Mark Wilf Dies at 62: NFL Mourns Loss of Visionary Leader

The Minnesota Vikings and the National Football League are grieving the unexpected and tragic passing of Vikings President and co-owner Mark Wilf, who died on April 17, 2025, at the age of 62. The cause of death has not yet been released. Wilf, a respected businessman, philanthropist, and lifelong advocate for justice, leaves behind a remarkable legacy both on and off the field.

As president and part of the Wilf ownership group that acquired the team in 2005, Mark Wilf played a transformative role in the evolution of the Minnesota Vikings organization. Known for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to excellence, Wilf was instrumental in ushering in a new era for the franchise—one marked by stability, innovation, and a deep connection to the Minnesota community.

A Transformational Legacy in Sports

Under Wilf’s leadership, the Vikings saw significant infrastructure investments, including the development of the state-of-the-art U.S. Bank Stadium, which opened in 2016, and the team’s world-class headquarters and training facility, the TCO Performance Center in Eagan. These projects, guided by Wilf’s steady hand and forward-thinking approach, elevated the Vikings to a new standard of excellence in the NFL.

Throughout his tenure, Wilf remained deeply involved in all aspects of the organization’s operations—from strategic planning and business development to fan engagement and philanthropic outreach. Colleagues and players alike described him as a compassionate leader who prioritized integrity, inclusion, and community.

A Life of Purpose Beyond Football

Beyond the gridiron, Mark Wilf was a committed humanitarian and civic leader. The son of Holocaust survivors, he drew inspiration from his family’s history and devoted his life to preserving Holocaust memory, promoting tolerance, and supporting vulnerable communities.

Wilf served as chair of the Jewish Federations of North America and co-chaired the National Holocaust Survivors Initiative, raising millions of dollars for Holocaust education and survivor support. In 2022, he traveled to Poland to assist Ukrainian refugees fleeing war—yet another example of his hands-on leadership in times of global crisis.

“Mark’s life was defined by purpose and passion,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “He was not only a tremendous leader within our league, but also a force for good across the country and around the world. His legacy will live on in every life he touched.”

A Family Man and Beloved Community Figure

Mark Wilf is survived by his wife, Jane, and their four children. He was known among close friends and family as a devoted husband, father, and mentor—someone who balanced the pressures of professional life with unwavering commitment to those he loved.

The Wilf family, in a statement released Thursday evening, expressed deep sorrow and gratitude:

“We are heartbroken by the sudden loss of Mark, a man whose heart, wisdom, and strength were the foundation of our family and our shared endeavors. His memory will be a guiding light to all who knew him.”

Tributes Pour In from Across the Nation

In the hours following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from fans, players, team executives, and leaders across the sports and philanthropic worlds. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called Wilf “a titan in business and an unmatched force for good,” while longtime Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen posted, “Mark always treated us like family. His belief in people and his vision made us all better.”

The Vikings organization has announced plans to honor Wilf’s life and legacy in the coming days, including a public memorial service to be held at U.S. Bank Stadium. Flags at the stadium and TCO Performance Center are being flown at half-staff.

End of an Era, But a Legacy That Endures

Mark Wilf’s death marks the end of an era for the Minnesota Vikings, but his impact will endure for generations. His leadership helped build not just a successful football franchise, but a culture rooted in compassion, respect, and resilience.

As the organization begins to chart a path forward, it does so with the values and vision Wilf championed for over two decades. His memory will live on in the roar of the crowd at U.S. Bank Stadium, in the community programs he helped create, and in every young life shaped by the causes he held dear.

In the words of the Vikings’ official statement:

“Mark Wilf embodied what it means to lead with heart. His legacy is not just the success of this team, but the strength of this community. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”