Sports
Ex-Wisconsin Badgers, Green Bay Packers Lineman Dies At 47
He helped shape one of the most successful eras in Wisconsin football before joining the NFL.
MADISON, WI — Bill Ferrario, a former University of Wisconsin Badgers standout and Green Bay Packers offensive lineman, has died unexpectedly at age 47.
Ferrario, a Scranton, Pennsylvania native, made his mark in Madison by starting 50 straight games for the Badgers.
His time on the offensive line helped lead Wisconsin to back-to-back Big Ten championships in 1998 and 1999, as well as consecutive Rose Bowl appearances, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Find out what's happening in Madisonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
After college, Ferrario was selected by the Green Bay Packers and went on to play two seasons in the NFL as a left guard.
His death was first reported by the Scranton Times-Tribune. The cause has not been disclosed.
Find out what's happening in Madisonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Ferrario’s former teammate and roommate, Casey Rabachm, now an assistant offensive line coach at Wisconsin, shared a tribute on social media.
“With a heavy heart, may you Rest in Peace,” Rabach posted in a message shared by his wife, Nicole.
She described Ferrario as “a wonderful friend,” adding, “You were like a brother to me. Casey and I love you forever.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
