Utah Football Issues Statement Following Passing Of Former Coach, Player John Pease
Aug 16, 2021, 4:20 PM
Defensive Coordinator John Pease celebrates as The University of Utah football team practices at Spence Eccles Field House in Salt lake City Thursday, April 2, 2015. ( Chelsey Allder, Deseret News)
( Chelsey Allder, Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The University of Utah football program issued a statement on Monday following the passing of former coach and player John Pease.
John Pease passed away Monday morning at the age of 77 after spending two decades as an assistant coach in college and the NFL. Pease moved to Utah and was the defensive coordinator, coming out of retirement to be the DC in 2015. He also served as the defensive line coach from 2009-10,
“John Pease was one of my favorite people, ever,” head coach Kyle Whittingham said. “He was my friend. It was an honor working with him, learning from him and knowing him. He impacted the lives of countless people and will be missed by all. The Utah Football family lost a great one and we send all our love and condolences to his wife, Chris, and his loved ones.”
John Pease was one of my favorite people, ever. He was my friend. It was an honor working with him, learning from him & knowing him. He impacted the lives of countless people & will be missed. The Utah Family lost a great one. We send condolences to his wife & loved ones.
— Kyle Whittingham (@UtahCoachWhitt) August 16, 2021
Utah Director of Athletics Mark Harlan released the following statement.
“John Pease was such a treasured member of our Utah Athletics family, who continued to have a special presence around our football program after his retirement,” said Harlan. “We extend our deepest sympathies to Coach Pease’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Trevor Allen is a Utah Utes Insider for sports.ksl.com and host of the Crimson Corner podcast. Follow him on Twitter: @TrevorASports. You can download and listen to the podcast, here.
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