It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Bemidji’s beloved football coach, Jim McKeon. News of his death broke on Monday, February 9th, 2023 and has left many in shock. As we search for answers to the cause of his untimely death, we take solace in remembering what a wonderful man he was and all the lives he touched. Keep reading more.
Who was Jim Mckeon?
Jim McKeon was a legendary figure in Bemidji athletics and devoted husband and father. He was best known for leading the Lumberjacks football team to state championships in 2004, 2007 & 2008. His coaching style combined with an ability to connect with players from all backgrounds made him beloved by his athletes. He took great pride in seeing them reach their full potential as student-athletes and young men. He was always generous with his time and invested heavily in the community beyond just being a coach.
Coach McKeon also had a great passion for teaching young people about sportsmanship and respect which extended to his own family as well. His son, Mike, played for him at Bemidji State University where he helped lead the team to several conference titles during his tenure there. In addition to Mike’s success on the field, Coach McKeon instilled the same values of hard work, dedication, and respect into his other children as well; something they will forever be grateful for. It’s these traits that made Jim McKeon such an exemplary role model not only for his players but for everyone who knew him or were lucky enough to cross paths with him throughout life.
How did Jim Mckeon die? What was the cause of his death?
The cause of Jim McKeon’s death still remains unknown at this time but tributes have been pouring in from across the country since news broke of his passing. The outpouring of love shows just how special he was and how much he meant to everyone around him. We send our deepest condolences to the friends and family of Coach Jim McKeon during this difficult time. May he rest peacefully knowing that so many people will miss him dearly.
Jim Mckeon Obituary
The loss of Coach Jim McKeon has left an indelible mark on those who knew him best; both personally and professionally through his coaching career at Bemidji State University. He embodied everything you would want from an exemplary role model – hard work, dedication, respect – instilling these values into generations of athletes who are now better people because of it. Though we may never know what transpired on February 9th that led to his sudden passing away from us all too soon, one thing is certain – Coach Jim McKeon will never be forgotten and will live on forever in our hearts and minds as one of Bemidji’s most beloved coaches ever! Rest In Peace!
Tributes Pour To Jim Mckeon death
Shannon Seibel
I’m sure I have photos from our college days, but these are the ones I will hold most closely. I never worried about Cole during football, even during state tournament pressure, knowing he had such unwavering support and guidance on the field, from this great man. No better role model than Jim McKeon. You will be missed by so many, friend.
Nikki Swanson
I forgot the last couple days to do my What Brings Me Joy posts. I just came across this and it brings me so much joy, and now so much sadness. I can’t even begin to say what a wonderful human Jim McKeon was. Kind, caring, fun…… everything. I am praying so much for his family ❤️❤️