U of M benefactor dies at age 78

One of the University of Minnesota's biggest benefactors has died at age 78.

The university, on its website, says entrepreneur Richard "Pinky" McNamara passed away Monday. McNamara was a former Gophers football player who attended the university on an athletic scholarship in the 1950s. McNamara credited professors and advisers at the university for teaching the skills that led to his successful business career.

McNamara founded Activar in 1988. He gave the university $3 million in 1992 and $10 million in 1998. The alumni center bears his name. McNamara served on the Board of Regents from 2001 to 2005.

McNamara and his brother also raised money to build TCF Bank Stadium.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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