Former Green Bay Packers President Bob Harlan Dies at 89

March 5, 2026

Green Bay, WI — Bob Harlan, the former president and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, has passed away at the age of 89. Harlan, who spent 18 years at the helm of the iconic franchise, was the architect behind the Packers' resurgence in the 1990s and beyond. His legacy will forever be tied to the Packers' success on and off the field.

A Visionary Leader Who Remade the Packers

Harlan’s leadership was instrumental in transforming the Packers from a struggling franchise into one of the most successful teams in the NFL. When he took over as president in 1989, the Packers were in disarray, but Harlan’s vision turned the organization around. His most significant moves included hiring GM Ron Wolf in 1991, a decision that ultimately led to two Super Bowl appearances and one victory. Under Harlan’s leadership, the Packers became one of the most competitive teams in the league, culminating in their win in Super Bowl XXXI in 1997.

The Packers family is saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Harlan

— Green Bay Packers (@packers) March 5, 2026

Harlan also spearheaded the renovation of Lambeau Field, a project that saved the franchise and solidified the Packers' place in the NFL for years to come. Despite the challenges, Harlan fought for a sales tax to fund the $295 million renovation, and his determination ensured that the Packers would continue to thrive for generations.

Tough Decisions and Legacy Building

Throughout his tenure, Harlan made many difficult decisions that would define the Packers for decades. One of the most controversial was his decision to stop playing home games in Milwaukee, bringing all Packers home games back to Lambeau Field. While this move generated some initial pushback, it ultimately solidified Lambeau Field as one of the NFL’s most iconic stadiums.

Harlan’s ability to make tough calls, such as firing Tom Braatz mid-season in 1991 and appointing Ron Wolf as GM, was a hallmark of his leadership. His decisions were not always popular, but they were always made with the long-term success of the franchise in mind.

A Champion for the Packers and Fans

Harlan’s relationship with Packers fans was one of respect and admiration. He was known for personally answering calls from fans and stockholders, addressing their concerns with the same attention to detail that he gave to the team’s operations. His commitment to the Packers’ fans was evident in his willingness to engage with them directly, ensuring that their voices were heard.

“Bob Harlan was a visionary leader whose impact on the franchise was transformational,” said current Packers president and CEO Ed Policy. “From his inspired hiring of Ron Wolf to his tireless work to redevelop Lambeau Field, Bob restored the Packers to competitive excellence during his tenure and helped ensure our unique and treasured flagship NFL franchise was on sound footing for sustained generational success.”

The Man Behind the Packers’ Resurgence

Harlan’s biggest legacy, however, may be his work in revitalizing the Packers’ operations. His leadership was critical in turning the team into one of the most successful and profitable franchises in sports. Under his watch, the Packers became Super Bowl contenders year in and year out, with many seeing Harlan as the man who led the team back to the pinnacle of the NFL.

“I think the most important thing I did was hire Ron Wolf,” Harlan wrote in his memoir. “That decision changed everything for us.”

Harlan’s humility and willingness to take risks are what made him stand out in a profession often filled with egos. His decisions shaped the Packers into the powerhouse they are today, both on the field and in terms of community engagement.

The Harlan Family and Legacy

Harlan is survived by his wife, Madeline, and their three sons, Kevin, Mike, and Bryan. Kevin is an award-winning sports broadcaster, and his granddaughter, Olivia Harlan Dekker, has become a notable reporter in both college and NFL circles.

In his retirement, Harlan remained active in the Packers community, serving on the board of directors of the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. His presence and influence continue to resonate within the organization.

Remembering a Legend

Bob Harlan’s death marks the end of an era for the Packers, but his impact on the team and its culture will never be forgotten. His leadership helped define the modern Packers, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of fans and leaders within the organization. Packers fans, who’ve known the team to be a symbol of community and resilience, owe much of that identity to Harlan’s unwavering commitment to the franchise.

In Green Bay, Harlan will always be remembered as a true visionary, a leader who helped guide the Packers back to prominence and ensured that Lambeau Field remains the beating heart of the franchise for years to come.