Eugene Seidl

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene Seidl on January 29, 2021. The
man, the myth, the legend and coach to all, has left us after 91 short years on earth. He will be deeply
missed by all that knew him. Eugene was a rare combination of someone who had a love of life and firm
understanding of what was important – the simplicity of living a life with those you love, and Michigan football.

Eugene was born on February 14, 1929 in Detroit to Joseph and Julia (Kozak) Seidl. He went to Ypsilanti
High School where he eventually was inducted into the Hall of Fame for athletics. His legacy began here
where he excelled in swimming, cross country, and track. But he wasn’t fast enough to outrun, Tillie
Person. They were married on September 8, 1951, and loved each other for 69 wonderful years.
Eugene first attended Eastern Michigan University, and went on to graduate from Northern Michigan
University with his Bachelor’s degree in Education. His first teaching job took him to Sebewaing High
School, and that’s where he began his legendary coaching career, in every sport. After 6 years, the
Seidls moved to West Branch where he remained for the rest of his life.

His teaching career allowed him to enjoy instructing Physical Education, Science, Math, and eventually
Drivers Training at West Branch Rose City Schools. But his love of athletics and coaching is likely what
he’ll be remembered for. Eugene coached track and field, football, basketball, and baseball; including
Little League, Browns Football, and womens softball. After his retirement, he loved to golf, swim,
bicycle, workout at the gym, take walks around West Branch, and go to his grandkids and great
grandkids sporting events.

His perfect day included Michigan football, a good cheeseburger, or coney dog from DQ, and one too
many sweets. Eugene’s sweet tooth got him into trouble with the wife one too many times, so he
leaves behind a multitude of hidden wrappers, stashed all over the house to remember him by. If you
had ever had the privilege of watching Michigan football with him, you’d understand why there were
many games that his family thought he might have a heart attack…but win or lose, he cheered on.

Eugene surrounded himself with beautiful women, as a husband and father of four daughters. That may
be why he was also soft spoken around the house. He had a zest for life, an infectious laugh, and was
kind to everyone he met. He was simply the best.

He is survived by his loving wife, Tillie, and daughters Sue (Jeff) Wangler, Kris (Kevin) Benjamin, and
Karla Montgomery, and preceded in death by his daughter Cynthia (Jeff) Smith, and son-in-law Michael
Montgomery. He also leaves behind grandchildren: Josh (Trisha) Treat of Grand Haven; Jodi (Michael)
Coe of Williamston; Jessica Smith (Dr. Micheal Oglivie) of Chicago; Courtney McGirr (Thomas O’Farrell)
of West Branch; Nikki (Matthew) Zvonar of Caledonia; Aaron (Denise) Smith of Chicago; Jon Treat
(Michelle Coleman) of Holt; Samantha Wangler of Middleville, and TJ McGirr (Stacy Sunell) of West
Branch; and many great grandchildren.

Per Eugene’s wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held on February 20, 2021.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steurnolmclaren.com.