Original Viking Frank Youso passed away Saturday, Oct. 8, at the age of 86.

The Vikings are mourning the loss and sending condolences to the family of the tackle who was acquired in the 1961 expansion draft ahead of Minnesota’s first season.

Youso became the first Minnesota native (International Falls) and University of Minnesota Golden Gopher to play for the Vikings, starting at right tackle and teaming with Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Fran Tarkenton for the first two Vikings seasons.

“Frank Youso was a gentle giant and a great asset to us as our starting tackle in our first year back in 1961,” Tarkenton said. “He was a big, powerful man who was a Minnesota guy through and through.

“He was the picture-perfect offensive tackle — a damn good player,” Tarkenton added.

After starting 32 of 36 games for the New York Giants from 1958-60, the second-round pick was left among its unprotected players as the Minnesota franchise prepared to build its initial roster through an expansion draft.

Franks Son and Grandson talk about Frank on Lets Talk About It.