Former 49ers wide receiver Dwight Clark dead at 61

Dwight Clark, who made ‘The Catch‘ that sent the San Francisco 49ers to their first Super Bowl, has died. He was 61 years old.

Clark had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He first began feeling symptoms in 2015 and went public with his diagnosis last year.

ALS attacks cells that control muscles. Clark suspected playing football might have caused the illness.

Clark’s wife issued the following statement Monday on Twitter, using Clark’s account:

The 49ers organization offered condolences to the Clark family, calling Dwight "one the most beloved figures in 49ers history."

The team said Clark died Monday surrounded by friends and family.

Clark won two Super Bowls with the 49ers during a nine-year career that ended in 1987. He memorably pulled down the winning touchdown pass from Joe Montana in the 1981 NFC championship game against the Dallas Cowboys, a play remembered simply as "The Catch."

It’s considered one of the most significant plays in NFL history.

Clark’s No. 87 has been retired by the 49ers.

Clark also served as general manager of the 49ers and the Cleveland Browns.