Joe Jarzynka, a former University of Washington football player who used his versatility and personality to build a huge fan following, was found dead Sunday on the banks of the Sol Duc River on Sunday while on a fishing trip, authorities said.

Jarzynka, 45, played for the Huskies from 1996 to 1999 as a wide receiver, fullback and special-teams player who not only returned kickoffs and punts but served as the place-kicker for a season.

Fans loved this guy, with his long hair flowing out the back of his helmet, for his fearlessness on the field — he steadfastly refused to call for a fair catch on a punt. Husky followers, in fact, formed a Jarzynka fan club.