Happy Birthday, Ace!
May 17th, 2012 | Published in Milestone Birthdays
Clarence “Ace” Parker, the oldest living pro football player, is 100 years old today. Parker played from 1937 to 1941 for the NFL’s Brooklyn Dodgers, served three years in World War II, then returned to play one season for the NFL’s Boston Yanks and one season for the AAFC’s New York Yankees. At various times in his career he was a tailback, defensive back, kicker, punter, and kick returner. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972.
Parker also played two seasons of major league baseball, for the American League’s Philadelphia Athletics. Today’s New York Times has a detailed account of his athletic career.
The card pictured here is Parker’s 1955 Topps All-American card. He also appeared on a 1975 Fleer Immortal Roll football card.
For a list of the 500 oldest living pro football players, see oldestlivingprofootball.com.
