Family: Former St. John's football coach John Gagliardi dies at age 91

(KMSP) - Former St. John's University football coach John Gagliardi died at age 91, his family announced Sunday.

According to the family's Facebook post, Gagliardi leaves behind his children and "his 3,000 football players."

"John was a winner in so many ways, but mostly in his ability to connect with others. His appreciation of others ran so deep that it was the core of who John was," his daughter Gina wrote.

Gagliardi retired in 2012 after 60 years at St. John's. He’s the all-time winningest coach in college football history, with 489 victories and four national titles.

Saint John's University released a statement which reads in part, "Saint John's University notes with sympathy the passing of its legendary football coach John Gagliardi, who achieved national attention for his success both on and off the field at Saint John's. Gagliardi passed away on Oct. 7, 2018, at the age of 91."

"I offer my deepest condolences to John's wife, Peggy, his family and friends and the thousands of Saint John's alumni who played for him," said SJU President Michael Hemesath. "John Gagliardi was not only an extraordinary coach, he was also an educator of young men and builder of character. John inspired deep and enduring loyalty and passion among his players across the decades because he taught them lessons through the medium of football that served them well in their personal and professional lives long after graduating from Saint John's University. His is a legacy any educator would be extremely proud of."