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Notre Dame Community Mourns Tragic Loss of Hinish Family Patriarch
Kurt and Donovan Hinish, former Notre Dame football stars, grieve the passing of their father Kurt Hinish Sr.
Mar. 30, 2026 at 2:24pm
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The Hinish family's heartbreaking loss transcends the highs and lows of their football legacies, as reflected in this fractured, geometric portrait.Notre Dame TodayThe Hinish family announced the passing of their patriarch, Kurt Hinish Sr., on Saturday after a courageous battle. Kurt and Donovan Hinish, former Notre Dame football captains, paid tribute to their father on social media, with the younger Kurt calling him a hero. The Hinish brothers have also faced setbacks in their own football careers, with Donovan retiring due to a shoulder injury and Kurt being released by the Houston Texans for a failed physical.
Why it matters
The Hinish family is deeply respected within the Notre Dame community, and the loss of their patriarch is felt across the university's football program and fanbase. The brothers' football careers have also been impacted by injuries, adding to the challenges they now face in grieving their father's passing.
The details
Kurt Hinish Sr., 59, passed away on Saturday after a courageous battle. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Tawnie, and their four children, including Kurt and Donovan Hinish, both former captains of the Notre Dame football team. The Hinish brothers have faced their own setbacks in recent years, with Donovan retiring from football due to a shoulder injury and Kurt being released by the Houston Texans for a failed physical.
- Kurt Hinish Sr. passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2026.
- Donovan Hinish announced his retirement from football at the end of 2025.
- Kurt Hinish was released by the Houston Texans earlier this month for a failed physical.
The players
Kurt Hinish Sr.
The patriarch of the Hinish family, who passed away on Saturday after a courageous battle. He was a legend in the weightlifting and football communities.
Kurt Hinish
The younger son of Kurt Hinish Sr., a former captain of the Notre Dame football team who is currently a free agent after being released by the Houston Texans.
Donovan Hinish
The elder son of Kurt Hinish Sr., a former captain of the Notre Dame football team who retired from the sport at the end of 2025 due to a shoulder injury.
What they’re saying
“My hero. I love you dad.”
— Kurt Hinish
“I'll never be able to thank you enough for all you've done in our lives. I love you dad.”
— Donovan Hinish
The takeaway
The Hinish family's loss is deeply felt by the entire Notre Dame community, who have long admired the brothers' football careers and the strength of their family. As the Hinishes grieve, the university and its fans will rally to support them during this difficult time.
