John Underwood, a former Packers Executive Committee Treasurer and longtime member of the Board of Directors, died earlier this week at the age of 81.

"John was a great supporter of the Packers and an integral member of the Packers family for many years," said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. "I don't think anyone knew the finances of the Packers and the NFL better than John. He was instrumental in the redevelopment of Lambeau Field in 2003, and is a main reason that the Packers are in such sound financial shape now.

"Our condolences go out to his wife, Gail, and his family."

Underwood was first elected to the Packers Board of Directors in 1986. Subsequently elected to the Executive Committee as Treasurer in 1990, he served in that role until becoming Director Emeritus in 2005.

Former Packers President/CEO Bob Harlan credited Underwood for his foresight into the NFL's financial landscape.

"John was very important to the organization for the fresh perspective and new ideas he brought when he became treasurer," Harlan said. "He was so well-respected in the NFL and served on league committees, representing the Packers very well. It was his understanding of the financial challenges the Packers were facing that provided valuable guidance as we determined that Lambeau Field needed a major renovation."