NASHVILLE, TN – The grandfather of Iowa football player Jack Campbell passed away late Friday evening following a vehicle-pedestrian accident.
William Smith, Jr., age 76, of Waterloo, Iowa, was the victim of the incident which involved one vehicle. Smith was transported to Vanderbilt Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased.
“Our hearts are with Jack and his entire family as they grieve the tragic death of their grandfather and father, William Smith, Jr.,” said Moon Family head football coach Kirk Ferentz. “We know Mr. Smith was a strong influence on his grandson and a faithful Hawkeye football supporter. All of us – players, coaches and staff members – will keep the Campbell family in our thoughts and prayers during this profoundly difficult time.”
Jack’s parents told him about his grandfather’s passing after the Music City Bowl game ended. His parents made the decision to wait to share this devastating news so that Jack would have one last time to play with his Iowa Hawkeye teammates. William Smith is the father of Jen Campbell, Jack’s stepmother.
1 thought on “Tragedy at Music City Bowl for Iowa linebacker, as Waterloo grandfather struck and killed by driver”
This is sad news to hear. I think it shows how strong the family is not to tell Jack until after the game, you have to respect that.
What I didn’t follow in your reporting is this statement: said Moon Family head football coach Kirk Ferentz. Who is the moon family in this story and why is Ferentz coaching them?