For nearly 50 years, Ron--better known as “Coach"--has worn many hats: Educator, Coach, Colleague, Mentor, Father, Friend and Man of Faith. For generations of Edina Students and Athletes, Coach wasn’t just a teacher—he was the kind of mentor who made everyone around him better.
This fundraiser exists to support Coach’s ongoing medical and life-care needs—helping cover essential expenses and resources that go well beyond what his limited income can manage. Earlier this fall, he spent several weeks in the hospital battling a life threatening infection--part of a recurring health pattern he's faced over the years. While he is now home and back to his usual routine, these episodes continue to create ongoing needs that require support and preparation.
He’s the kind of man who would literally give you the shirt off his back--and often did the next best thing. At times, he gave up his own coaching pay, so players who couldn’t afford camp fees could still attend. That’s the kind of selfless, caring person he’s always been.
As a longtime Edina football coach and P.E. teacher, he spent decades shaping young lives--pushing kids to grow, holding them accountable and leading with heart.
His impact reached far beyond Edina. As a proud UMD Bulldog alum, Coach carried the same love of the game and commitment to mentorship wherever he went— including later years coaching at Holy Family Catholic in Victoria, Minnesota, where he continued to guide and inspire young athletes.
Now, it’s our turn to lift him up.
Health & Financial Reality
Over the years, Coach has faced recurring health challenges, including life threatening infections that have required hospitalization and recovery. These episodes tend to come on suddenly and can take a significant toll--physically, emotionally and financially.
Living on a fixed income, Coach does not have a financial buffer to absorb the costs that come with these realities. Expenses related to medical care, equipment, home support and future planning have gradually outpaced what his monthly income can cover.
Each month requires careful planning. After covering basic living expenses, there is often little left to prepare for additional needs when they arise. That's why help is needed now—to provide reassurance today and ensure Coach has access to the care and resources he may need in the months and years ahead.
What Your Gift Will Provide
Your generosity will help give Coach comfort and the security he deserves by supporting:
- Medical bills and health-related expenses
- In-home caregiver support and assistance services
- Extended transitional care following hospital stays
- Preparation for Senior living or higher-level care
- Home updates for accessibility and ease
- Mobility aids and medical equipment
- Monthly living costs not covered by fixed income
Every contribution--large or small--supports Coach's well-being and peace of mind.
How You Can Help
Coach has always shown up for others. Right now, he truly needs others to show up for him.
If he ever taught you, encouraged you or made a difference in your life, please consider helping in whatever way you can.
Your support will ease burdens he would never ask anyone else to carry and helps ensure he can continue living with dignity and care.
Please click on the link to donate and share this with anyone that might want to help—friends, former players, students, teammates, former colleagues or anyone whose life he’s touched.
On behalf of Coach Ron’s support team-his family and former players from the Class of ’76. Thank you for rallying around him now, the same way he’s spent decades rallying around others!
And, as Coach would say, "Thanks a million!"