Bill Bidwill's journey in the world of professional football is a story of leadership and legacy. Born into a family with deep ties to the sport, Bidwill's involvement with the National Football League (NFL) began at an early age. His father, Charles Bidwill, purchased the Chicago Cardinals in 1932, setting the stage for Bill's lifelong association with the team.

After attending Georgetown Preparatory School and serving in the U.S. Navy, Bidwill pursued higher education at Georgetown University. His formal entry into the family business came in the early 1960s when he and his brother, Charles Jr., inherited the Cardinals following their mother's passing. Initially, the brothers co-owned the team, but in 1972, Bill became the sole owner, a position he held for decades.

Under Bidwill's ownership, the Cardinals underwent several transformations, including relocations and rebranding efforts. In 1960, the team moved from Chicago to St. Louis, becoming the St. Louis Cardinals. This move marked the beginning of a new era, as the team sought to establish itself in a new market. Despite challenges on the field, Bidwill remained committed to the franchise, overseeing its operations and striving to build a competitive team.

The Cardinals' next major transition occurred in 1988 when Bidwill relocated the team to Arizona. The move to Phoenix was driven by the pursuit of a more favorable stadium deal and the potential for growth in a burgeoning market. Renamed the Arizona Cardinals, the team faced the task of winning over a new fan base while competing in a different environment. Bidwill's leadership during this period was characterized by efforts to stabilize the franchise and foster community engagement.

Throughout his tenure, Bidwill was known for his low-profile approach and preference for staying out of the spotlight. He focused on the business side of the organization, allowing his coaches and players to take center stage. Despite this reserved demeanor, Bidwill was instrumental in several key decisions that shaped the team's trajectory. His commitment to improving the team's facilities and infrastructure was evident in the construction of the state-of-the-art University of Phoenix Stadium, which opened in 2006.

The Cardinals experienced varying levels of success under Bidwill's ownership. While the team faced periods of struggle, there were also moments of triumph. One of the most memorable achievements came in the 2008 season when the Cardinals reached Super Bowl XLIII. Although they fell short against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team's journey to the championship game was a testament to the progress made under Bidwill's stewardship.

Bidwill's influence extended beyond the football field. He was known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting numerous charitable causes and initiatives. His commitment to the community was reflected in the team's involvement in various outreach programs, aimed at making a positive difference in the lives of others.

In 2019, Bill Bidwill passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that spanned nearly six decades in professional football. His tenure as owner of the Cardinals was marked by perseverance and a steadfast dedication to the franchise.

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