INDIANAPOLIS — Jim Irsay started his football career as a ball boy. He finished it as a team owner.

Along the way, the NFL's music man created his own, unique brand.

Irsay worked his way up through the organization, learning how to run a football team, restoring the Colts' once-proud tradition to glory and created what some have dubbed the greatest guitar collection on Earth — all while battling health issues and addictions to alcohol and painkillers.

On Wednesday, Irsay's remarkable journey ended at age 65. Pete Ward, Irsay's longtime right-hand man, made the announcement in a statement, saying Irsay died peacefully in his sleep.

"Jim's dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community and, most importantly, his love for his f

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