On the same day that Alan Page turned 80 (Happy Birthday, Justice Page), fellow Purple People Eater Carl Eller attended and enthusiastically posed for photos with generations of fans. Fellow Vikings Ring of Honor member Scott Studwell participated in a Q&A to share stories about the man who started the first 270 regular-season games and 19 playoff contests in franchise history. Studwell and Vikings Legend Doug Sutherland hoisted Marshall onto their shoulders after his final home game in 1979.
The Minnesota Vikings Museum also debuted a new display in honor of Marshall that features artifacts on loan from the family.
Toward the end of practice, a Monarch butterfly flitted by the media observation area, and one couldn't help but think of Bud Grant, the Minnesota icon who at least once perplexed players during a Mankato practice by talking about the migration of Monarchs. Thanks for joining the festivities, Coach.
Asked to reflect on the day, Kayla explained, "It just means that he touched a lot of people. He left his mark, and I feel like that really resonates."
"And just to see people stop and listen, and to just see how many hearts he touched, I just really appreciate it," she continued. "It just brings joy to me. It puts a smile on my face."
Susan seamlessly added, "He brought joy to a lot of people."
And still does.