John McCain was busy helping run the country over the years as a Senator, but when he had a chance, he'd drop by a Cardinals' practice or game to see his favorite football team and see friends like Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Bidwill.

McCain passed away Saturday night after a long fight with brain cancer and only a day after his family announced he would no longer be receiving treatment. The end, however inevitable, was difficult for those who knew him.

"Arizona, the United States and the world will never be the same without the voice of Senator John McCain," Bidwill said in a statement. "We are heart-broken by his passing but know that the character, courage and conviction that he demonstrated throughout his life will endure forever. All of us at the Arizona Cardinals extend our deepest condolences to his wife Cindy and their entire family. The world was a better place with Senator John McCain in it and we all mourn his loss tonight."

McCain was 81.

In a Sports Illustrated piece he wrote last year, Fitzgerald wrote that he would tell his sons "Senator John McCain will be revered and respected for as long as the United States of America has a place in this world, and his legacy will outlive us all."

Fitzgerald also tweeted out his thoughts Saturday, "Rest in peace to an American hero, statesman, servant of the people, and dear friend. Godspeed Senator McCain. My prayers for Cindy and the beautiful McCain family."