ALLEN PARK -- During Chris’ career with the Lions (1988-95), Stefanie was a leader in the organization’s community outreach helping several charities.  She organized the Detroit Lions Fashion Show to benefit Detroit Lions Charities in the early 1990s, and she and Chris were guest speakers at the Detroit Lions Courage House Dinner in 2000 where they shared their story of their fight against cancer.

The Spielmans were in Detroit last November celebrating Chris’ selection to the Lions’ All-75th Anniversary Team.

“The Lions’ family is deeply saddened with the passing of a good friend.  Stefanie touched the hearts of everyone who knew her,” said Lions’ president Tom Lewand.  “With her strong faith and Chris’ devoted support, Stefanie smiled in the face of adversity and used her battle with cancer to help countless others.  She was and always will be an inspiration.  Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts go to Chris and the family.”

Soon after Stefanie’s breast cancer was diagnosed, she and Chris established the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research and the Stefanie Spielman Patient Assistance Fund at Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. Through their annual Stefanie’s Champions luncheon in Columbus and other fund-raising activities, they have helped raised $6.5 million.

For more information on Stefanie and her fund-raising efforts on behalf of breast cancer research, go to www.spielmanfund.com.

Public calling hours will be Monday, November 23, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Longaberger Alumni House on the Ohio State University campus.  A memorial service limited to friends of the Spielman family will take place Tuesday.