Aug. 21, 2007

Burr Baldwin, one of just eight UCLA football players to have his jersey number (38) retired, passed away on Monday night in Bakersfield. He was 85.

Baldwin passed away from cancer, which was diagnosed at Easter. He spent the last 50 years working as an insurance broker, finally retiring in early July.

He was UCLA's first consensus All-American, earning honors in 1946, the same year in which he placed seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting. A three-year (1941, 1942 and 1946) letterman, he played in UCLA first two Rose Bowls, following the 1942 and 1946 seasons. As a senior in 1946, he led the Bruins with 18 receptions for 374 yards and three touchdowns.

He is survived by his two sons, Burr Baldwin Jr. and Michael Baldwin. Funeral services are scheduled for next Tuesday, August 28 at 9:30 am at St. Phillip the Apostle Church in Bakersfield (7100 Stockdale).