Former college football head coach Dana Dimel died at 62 years old on Tuesday, his family announced.
A former All-American offensive tackle at Kansas State in the 1980s, Dimel spent 19 seasons as a K-State assistant over three stints and also served as head coach at Wyoming, Houston and UTEP. He spent this season as a senior offensive assistant at Illinois.
Dimel died in his sleep, according to his agent Pete Roussel.
Statement on the passing of Dana Dimel. pic.twitter.com/tPTSSQHkhI
— Pete Roussel (@PeteRoussel) December 3, 2024
“Dana was an exceptional person, husband, father, friend, and football coach,” Illinois head coach Bret Bielema said in a statement. “He affected the lives of countless coaches, players, and staff members for more than three decades in college football. His influence on our program was incredible to witness and be a part of. His infectious positive energy had a major impact on me, our players, and everyone in our building every day. He will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.”
Dimel spent most of his run at K-State as offensive coordinator under Bill Snyder, helping lead the team to three seasons of at least 10 wins, a Big 12 championship and 12 bowl games.
“He was a special friend and coaching companion,” Snyder said in a statement. “I admired his passion for helping his players and fellow coaches. He was a big part of the development of the Kansas State football program, and along with his wife Julie, very meaningful in the Manhattan community.”
As a head coach, Dimel produced three winning seasons in three years at Wyoming in the late 1990s and a bowl appearance at UTEP in 2021. He joined the Illinois staff in July.
Dimel is survived by his wife Julie and children Winston and Josey. Winston was a three-time All-Big 12 fullback at K-State under Dana before transferring to UTEP when his father took the UTEP job.
“His passing is gut-wrenching,” Roussel said in a statement. “Dana was my first client over a decade ago and the single most enjoyable client to be with after a win. Some of the games he called at K-State were remarkable and he never cared about receiving individual credit. Dana loved his wife. He absolutely adored his children. He was one of the most positive people I knew, and he was unafraid of any challenge. He had an incredible zest for life, one that would make those around him smile time and time again. I will miss Dana more than words can express.”
(Photo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
