At 62 years old, Dana Dimel, a renowned college football coach, has passed away.
During his career, Dimel served as the head coach of three college football programs.
College football coach Dana Dimel died Tuesday. He was 62.
The Illinois football program announced the sudden death of Dimel, who was a senior offensive assistant.
Pete Roussel, the agent of the former coach, announced that he passed away in his sleep.
UTEP's head coach for six seasons, Dimel also coached Wyoming in the late '90s and led Houston Cougars from 2000-02.
Before becoming a coach, Dimel was an All-American offensive lineman at Kansas State. After serving as an assistant coach under Bill Snyder, he was appointed as the Wildcats' offensive coordinator for the 1995 season.
In 2009, Dimel returned to Kansas State and was reinstated as offensive coordinator. Despite ending his second stint with the Wildcats in 2017, his tenure spanned 20 seasons. During this time, Dimel was part of a staff that coached in 12 bowl games and won the Big 12 championship in 2012.
Snyder released a statement Tuesday.
"Dana's passing has left us deeply saddened, as he was a cherished friend and coaching companion. Snyder, in a statement, expressed his admiration for Dana's passion for helping his players and fellow coaches. He was a significant contributor to the growth of the Kansas State football program and had a profound impact on the Manhattan community, alongside his wife Julie."
In July, Illinois appointed Dimel as the senior offensive assistant for their football program, despite his FBS head coaching record being 50-88.
Illinois coach Bret Bielema stated that Dimel had an immense influence on Illinois and the college football landscape.
"Bielema's impact on college football was felt by countless coaches, players, and staff members for over three decades. His influence on the program was incredible to witness and be a part of. His infectious positive energy had a major impact on him, the players, and everyone in the building every day. He will be dearly missed."
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