Obama offers condolences to Paterno family

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., Jan. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama spoke by phone with the wife and son of the late Penn State football coach Joe Paterno, the White House said.

The president offered his condolences and told Paterno's widow, Sue, and son, Jay, that he and first lady Michelle Obama will keep the family in their prayers at this difficult time.

Friends and family of the late coach will have a chance to pay their final respects to the legendary football coach during public viewing times and a memorial service this week, the State College (Pa.) Centre Daily reported Tuesday.

The Paterno family said public viewing will take place Tuesday afternoon and evening, and Wednesday morning at the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center on the University Park Campus.

Private funeral services for the family are scheduled Wednesday afternoon but a public memorial for the football legend will be held at the Bryce Jordan Center on Thursday. A ticket for that service is required.

Paterno died Sunday while being treated for lung cancer.