Bob Mathias was a two-time Olympic decathlon champion and also became a four term Republican Congressman. His brother said that the cause of death was cancer.
In a statement by the chairman of the United States Olympic Committee, Peter Ueberroth said "Bob Mathias was one of those rare individuals with the ability to inspire a nation through his determination and perseverance. He was a champion in every aspect of life, and he embraced the values that make our country and the worldwide Olympic movement special"
In 1948, the 17 year old Mathias became the youngest male to win an Olympic gold medal.
