“Heaven Took You”: Steelers’ Russell Wilson Mourns His Beloved Dad as He Pens Emotional Message on His Death Anniversary

It is a heavy day for Russell Wilson. Today marks the death anniversary of the quarterback’s father, Harrison Wilson. The veteran credits his late father for molding him into the man, player, and champion he is today.

Wilson shared a post on his Instagram story as a tribute to the senior Wilson. Along with a throwback photo, the post carried a few words the QB had spoken previously about his father. “My father instilled a “Why not you?” attitude in me. Asking myself that every day since has gotten me where I am today.” Wilson also penned a heartfelt message on his Instagram story, “I miss you Dad. Heaven took you on this day!”

Harrison passed away on Jun 9, 2010, succumbing to diabetes at the age of 55. Wilson had shared the lessons he carried with him even after his father’s demise. “My dad, when I was young, he always inspired me,” he said, as per ESPN. “He used to always ask me the question, ‘Son, why not you? Why don’t you play pro baseball? Why don’t you play pro football?’ The idea of ‘Why not you?’ was really at the center of who I was. I started really subconsciously and consciously asking myself that question.”

Harrison’s unfortunate demise stopped him from witnessing his son’s NFL debut and watching Wilson lift the Lombardi Trophy. But his values live on in Wilson, and he treasures it.

The 3 lessons from Russell Wilson’s dad

Four years ago, on the 10th anniversary of Harrison Wilson’s death, the former Seahawks star shared the three lessons he gained from his father in an emotional note. “Dad, I miss you everyday. You were and still are one of my greatest inspirations. You helped instill Perspective, Vision & Belief in me. 3 things necessary for not only success but overcoming.”

He also confessed the one wish he had in the world, enjoying music with his father on a car ride once more. “If I could have one wish in the world, it would simply be to able to go on a ride with you again and jam out to Earth, Wind, & Fire “Devotion” again.” The post was complete with an adorable photograph of a young college-going Wilson in a football uniform, smiling ear-to-ear, next to his father.

Russell Wilson honored his father by naming his youngest son, Win Harrison Wilson. The quarterback carries with him the legacy of his late father in his decade-long NFL career.