TUCSON, Ariz. -- The Arizona football family lost one of its best Tuesday with the passing of former offensive line standout and team captain, Warner Smith. The native of San Manuel, Ariz., had been battling Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) since 2014. He is survived by his wife Becky and daughter Carlee.

Smith was a four-year starter and senior team captain for the Wildcats during the famed Desert Swarm era. After beginning his career on the defensive side of the ball, Smith became a two-time All-Pac-10 honoree as an offensive guard. During his career from 1991-1994, Arizona compiled a 28-18-1 overall record, appeared in three bowl games and produced the 1994 Fiesta Bowl shutout over 10th-ranked Miami to cap the program's first 10-win season.

Statement from Arizona Athletics:
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Warner Smith, who bravely fought a horrible disease in recent years. Warner epitomized the Bear Down spirit not only in his time with us as a student-athlete, but in every aspect of his life. We'll always remember his outstanding play on the field, but most importantly we'll never forget who he was as a man. We ask all in the Arizona football family to keep Warner's friends, teammates and family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."