Police Confirm Death of Packers Coach's Son

(NewsCore) - Police in Wisconsin on Tuesday confirmed the death of Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin's son.

The body of 21-year-old Michael Philbin was pulled from the icy waters of the Fox River in Oshkosh, about 50 miles south of Green Bay, on Monday.

The coach's son was reported missing Sunday night after last being heard from at 2:10am local time when he made a cellphone call to a friend.

At around 2:36am, a security guard from a nearby business called police to report someone had fallen through the thin ice of the Fox River and was seen about 30 yards off shore. Police recovered Philbin's body at 3:00pm Monday.

"We love Michael so much and will miss him dearly. He loved his family, friends and life," Joe Philbin said in a statement. "His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.

"We are appreciative of the prayers and the support of our family, friends and the Packers family. We ask for continued respect and privacy for our family as we deal with our loss.

"Our family also wants to thank the Oshkosh Police Department, Winnebago County Dive/Rescue/Recovery Team and the Winnebago County Coroner's office for their efforts and compassion during this difficult ordeal."

Michael Philbin had been in Oshkosh visiting friends at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He was a student at Ripon College in Ripon, Wis., according to reports.

Oshkosh Police Chief Scott Greuel said Tuesday authorities did not suspect foul play. An autopsy was scheduled to take place Tuesday in Madison to determine the official cause of death, but the results could take up to four weeks.

Michael Philbin was the second-oldest of six children to Joe Philbin and his wife, Diane.

Joe Philbin, 50, has been the offensive coordinator of the Packers since 2007 and interviewed last week for the Dolphins' head coaching vacancy.

"The Packers family was saddened to learn of the passing of Michael Philbin, son of offensive coordinator Joe Philbin," Packers general manager Ted Thompson said in a statement Tuesday.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe, his wife, Diane, and the Philbin family as they cope with their loss. This is an emotional and difficult time for them, and we ask that everyone respect their privacy. All of us in the Packers family share in their grief."

Several reports suggested that Packers players and staff were notified of Michael Philbin's death on Monday.

The Packers had a bye this past weekend and will host the New York Giants in the Divisional Round next Sunday.