Former Minnesota Vikings cornerback Ronyell Whitaker made a decision that saved four lives before his death at age 46.
Whitaker’s partner of four years, Laurie Charboneau, revealed in a Wednesday, April 29, interview with M Health Fairview that the NFL star, who died on February 21, was an organ donor. After suffering a brain aneurysm, he remained on life support for several days while staff searched for potential recipients.
“Ronyell loved coaching high school kids,” she said. “He would introduce himself to the parents and say, ‘I’m not just their coach for football. I’m their mentor, so if the kids ever have something going on, I’m here.’ He always wanted to help in any way, and I’m sure he felt the same way when he checked the box to be an organ donor.”
She added, “He would be very excited to know that his life continued on.”
Charboneau did not disclose the specific details of the organ donations, but said she thinks about the families who were impacted by Whitaker’s gift.
“I think about their families and I think about how their health is now, hoping that they’re feeling better,” she said. “He would have been so proud and happy to have helped them. He donated his heart to science as well. So that’s pretty amazing.”
Whitaker’s family also acknowledged his generosity in a statement released in February announcing his death.
“While many knew him for his athletic accomplishments, those closest to him knew him best for his generous heart, unwavering loyalty and deep love for his family. He was a protector, a mentor and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him,” the statement read.
Whitaker played for three teams during his NFL career, also spending time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. After retirement, he moved back to Minnesota, where he served as CEO of Whitaker Group LLC, a real estate company that specializes in short sales and relocation transactions for the Vikings.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore,” the team wrote in a statement following his death. “While we are working to understand the facts, we have spoken with Rondale’s family to offer our condolences and the full support of the Minnesota Vikings. We have also been in communication with our players, coaches, and staff, and will make counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
