Former Fitzroy captain and long-time recruiter Matt Rendell dies after suffering a heart attack.

"Matthew passed away this afternoon, after suffering a cardiac arrest Sunday morning. He did not regain consciousness," his wife Leonie said in a statement.

"We greatly appreciate the efforts of the first responders and the staff at the Victorian Heart Hospital.

"The Rendell family would like to express gratitude towards everyone who has been supportive at this time."

Michael Rogers for AFL.com.au