Overview

• Joe DePugh, the inspiration behind Bruce Springsteen's 1984 hit 'Glory Days,' passed away at 75 after battling cancer.
• Springsteen paid tribute to DePugh on Instagram, calling him 'a good friend when I needed one' and quoting lyrics from the song.
• DePugh and Springsteen grew up together in Freehold, New Jersey, and their chance 1973 encounter inspired the song's narrative.
• A standout athlete, DePugh was a skilled pitcher who tried out for the Los Angeles Dodgers and later raised his younger brothers instead of them entering foster care.
• The two remained friends throughout their lives, occasionally reconnecting in Florida, where both had homes.