Gary Moeller, former University of Michigan and Detroit Lions head coach, has passed away at the age of 81 on Monday, July 11, 2022. The renowned coach spent 23 seasons with the Michigan football program with his highlight victory being a win over Washington in the 1993 Rose Bowl.
The school officials announced and confirmed the tragic news of Moeller’s death this Monday.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of former head coach Gary Moeller today. Our thoughts are with his wife Ann and the rest of the Moeller family,” read the official statement by the University of Michigan on Twitter.
The American football fans, players, and associates are heartbroken over the unfortunate incident of Moeller’s death. The late legend had coached hundreds of players to glory in his brief stint with several college football teams.
Fans and players are remembering Moeller as a sweet and tough man. Twitter and other social media platforms are filled with condolences, prayers, and wishes for the departed soul and his family.
How did Gary Moeller die?
Gary Moeller who was prominently known for being University of Michigan’s football team’s head coach from 1990 to 1994, has died at the age of 81 years. The former American football coach passed away on Monday due to unspecified causes.
However, his death was termed as natural and no foul play was involved. University of Michigan confirmed the news of the legend’s departure from this world. Although they didn’t reveal further details about his death.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of former head coach Gary Moeller today. Our thoughts are with his wife Ann and the rest of the Moeller family.
— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) July 11, 2022
» https://t.co/JFlgJAu1xV pic.twitter.com/Z2Iz9m1axA
Moeller’s family hasn’t provided a statement on Gary’s death yet. We’ll be trying to reach rhe family to hear some official words on the incident. For now, we shall respect their privacy in these tough times.
What was the cause of Gary Moeller’s death?
Gary Moeller’s cause of death is unknown at the moment. The University of Michigan broke the news about his departure from the world. However, further details about his death were kept private.
We join the Michigan football community in remembering the life and career of Gary Moeller, who served as the Lions’ assistant head coach/LB coach from 1997-2000, as well as interim head coach for the final seven games of the 2000 season. pic.twitter.com/vpsW21cjHO
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) July 11, 2022
It’s being speculated that old age related health issues and Moeller’s worsening physical conditions culminated into the eventual cause of death. However, all of this based on rumors available on social media platforms. Although his old age could actually be the prime cause.
We are waiting for official words from the Moeller family. Once they provide an update, we’ll let you know about it.
Gary Moeller Early Life and Coaching Career
After completing graduation in 1963, Moeller started coaching at the high school level at Bellefontaine High School in Ohio as head coach, and then joined Bo Schembechler at the Miami University in 1967.
In 1969, he moved with Schembechler to Michigan and served as defensive ends coach until 1973. From 1977 to 1979, Moeller worked as the head coach of the University of Illinois. He rejoined the Michigan Wolverines as quarterbacks coach for a season in 1981 and served as both offensive and defensive coordinator at the school.
From 1990 to 1994, Gary Moeller was the head coach of University of Michigan. During the five seasons, he won 44 games, lost 13, and tied 3 for a winning percentage of 75.8. In Big Ten Conference play, Moeller’s team won 30 games, lost 8, and tied 2.
Moeller then resigned in May 1995 as Michigan’s head coach after tapes were released of his alleged drunken outburst following an arrest on a charge of disorderly conduct at a restaurant. After that, Moeller also worked with Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lines, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
His final coaching stint came with Chicago Bears as linebackers coach under head coach Dick Jauron. He served there for two seasons before being fired after the 2003 season.
Gary Moeller is survived by his wife and children
Gary Moeller is survived by his wife, Ann Moeller, three daughters- Susan, Amy, and Molly, and son Andy Moeller. Andy is also a former linebacker and captain for the Michigan Wolverines. The family is going through a very tough time following Gary’s death.
“Gary Moeller was a great family man, great friend, great coach, and a man of integrity and high character,” said Lloyd Carr, former head coach in a statement. “I admired him, I respected him, and I loved him.”
“I was fortunate enough to work with Coach Mo at both Miami (Ohio) and Michigan,” said former Michigan football equipment manager Jon Falk.
“Gary Moeller was a coach who looked out for everyone who worked with him and for all of the players who played for him and represented our program. He was a good-hearted man who made decisions and sought input from his staff to make sure that the decisions were right for Michigan. Gary Moeller will be missed but will not be forgotten. He was a great Michigan man and close friend to my family.” he added.
We express our grief and send condolences for the departed soul. May God grant strength to his family and near ones during the tough time.