Fans Join Former Broncos Players At Celebration Of Life For Pat Bowlen

DENVER (CBS4) - More than 5,000 fans joined former Denver Broncos players to pay their respects to Pat Bowlen's family on Tuesday at Broncos Stadium at Mile High. The family arranged to have memorabilia from their father's legacy on display.

It's an opportunity for fans to experience how Pat Bowlen lived his life and see just how much of an impact "Mr. B" had on the community.

Elvin Devroffs known as "The Broncnator" wore Broncos horses on his shoulders with American flags flying high.

"It's a solemn event, but we are here to celebrate his life and everything he did," said Devroffs.

It was like a walk through a museum of Pat Bowlen's football life. His famous fur coat was there, the one he would wear on the sidelines on those bitter cold days. There were the boots and sunglasses so often associated with the man who brought Superbowl Championships to Denver.

Bowlen passed away Thursday night at the age of 75. Bowlen, who will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August, had been battling Alzheimer's disease.

Former Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning was there along with Broncos general manager and president of operations John Elway.

Fans were amazed at the amount of memorabilia that Bowlen had collected during his lifetime.

Ralph Williams, known to fans as "The Limo Driver" told CBS4's Rick Sallinger, "Most teams would have a few little things, but Superbowls, conference championships, it's amazing to see this man's life."

The rings and Superbowl trophies were on display as if fans needed reminder of Pat Bowlen's legacy.

"I know this is all his stuff his family has, such great love to bring this out and share this with us," Devroffs said.

"It's incredible. I guess it's just a reflection of so much greatness," said one fan. "Most people just have a few little things to symbolize. But eight Super Bowls, championship conferences, everything, it's just amazing to show this man's great life. It's been incredible to see, to witness, got me going down memory lane."

The celebration of life continues through 3 p.m. Tuesday.

Broncos fans began honoring Bowlen by visiting his statue in front of the Broncos' stadium on Friday.

On the team owner's desk on display there was a "to do" note: "Be number one in everything."

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