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Robert Kraft: Late Patriots tight end Russ Francis ‘lived his life to the fullest’

Former NFL tight end Russ Francis was killed in a plane crash on Sunday at the age of 70, prompting his former team — the New England Patriots — to release a statement on the tragedy.

“On behalf of the entire New England Patriots organization, we extend our sincerest sympathies to the family of Russ Francis, who tragically passed away yesterday,” the team statement on behalf of owner Robert Kraft reads.

“Russ was a fan favorite throughout his playing career. He was a dynamic player on the field who had an even bigger personality off it.