Former NFL defensive lineman for the Patriots, Houston Antwine and his wife were remembered by Patriots’ Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft.
“For those of us who grew up watching the Boston Patriots, this is a really sad day,” said Kraft in a statement released by the team. “In the 1960s, the defensive tackle tandem of ‘Twine’ and Jim Lee Hunt were as good as any in the league and helped propel the Patriots to the franchise’s first division championship in 1963. Myra and I had the good fortune of hosting Houston and his wife, Evelyn, at my home just two years ago when we honored the Patriots 50th Anniversary Team. I loved hearing Houston’s stories about those early days in Boston.”
”I am saddened to learn of the deaths of both Houston and Evelyn and want to express my deepest sympathies to the Antwine’s daughter, Regina, and all who mourn her losses. Let us all cherish life and remind loved ones how we feel about them daily.”
Antwine played for the Patriots from 1961 to 1971 and was named to six AFL All-Star Games. He finished his career with the 1972 Eagles. In addition to making the Patriots 1960s All-Decade team, he was chosen to the all-time All-AFL team.
Antwine, age 72, died of heart failure on Monday night. Hours later, his wife Evelyn died of lung cancer on Tuesday morning.
