Montse Chaure took care of her husband Tito Vilnova during his battle with throat cancer.
Vilnova died at age 45 on Friday.
Vilanova had a recurring tumor in a saliva gland and was admitted to a hospital in Barcelona last week. The team announced his death on its website.
Vilanova first became ill in November 2011 while an assistant to Guardiola and took a leave of absence after surgery. Vilanova returned and replaced Guardiola the next season, leading Barcelona to the Spanish league title with a record-tying 100 points.
Vilanova had a second tumor removed in December 2012 and traveled to New York several times during the season for further treatment before returning to the sidelines. In April 2013, Vilanova said he felt fine and “never thought about quitting.” He finished the season before suddenly being forced to resign following a relapse in July.
Chaure, a graphic designer who reportedly met Vilanova when they were both 18, helped take care of Vilnova during the battle cancer as well as their two children.
Chaure and Vilanova were married in 1992. She frequently traveled with him.
They have a daughter, Carlota, who is now a college student, as well as Adrian, who is currently in Barcelona’s youth academy.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
