On Friday evening, December 16th, 2011 Ned, a founding coach of the Mid-South Fencers’ Club, died from a short and hard fought battle with cancer. He leaves behind his wife Anne, his daughter, Erin, his father and two brothers. Below is the letter written for a memory book that was given to Ned before his untimely death. The outpouring of support and love for Ned and his family has been tremendous! I know he was honored by all the thoughts, words, and support given to him up until his last days. Funeral services will be planned and scheduled for after the holidays. Peace and Light to us all who have lost someone to this ruthless disease.
Ned,
How can we honor you enough in our club? You are the premier coach of this facility. Without you, there would be no “us” that there is today. Your students are the rock stars of our club!
Your way of being, presenting yourself, and guiding students is admired. Your students adore you, they follow you, and are loyal to your ways and your guidance.
I hope that any time Erin and Anne want to remember and see a part of you extending into the future, they will walk into the doors of our facility. The club, fencing, coaching is an extension of you, your energy and passion. You not only love this sport, but you embody the best of what a coach is, which is to guide and help create good people, as well as good athletes. Also, you instill the love of the sport in all of your athletes. If you are not having fun, why bother?
Ned, you will be greatly missed, but your spirit and guidance will not be far from our thoughts as we grow and evolve over time. “What would Ned think?” will be a question we ask before any major change. “How would Ned handle this situation?” will provide us with checks and balances. The club appreciates all that you have offered. We celebrate your life here every day.
Thank you for your service and commitment to Mid-South Fencers’ Club.
Coaches Jen, Matt, Jeff, Ned, and Stephen, Spring 2010.
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