SEATTLE (AP) — Former Washington coach Don James was remembered in a memorial service as a caring family man, dear friend and successful coach who had every aspect of his life planned out, including the memorial to honor his passing.
Many former players and coaches attended the memorial Sunday afternoon. Speakers included members of his family, close friends, and former players and coaches including Missouri coach Gary Pinkel, who flew to Seattle after the Tigers’ loss on Saturday night to South Carolina. There was also a video tribute from Alabama coach Nick Saban, who played and worked for James at Kent State.
Former Kent State and Washington athletic director Mike Lude said there needed to be no monument to James because “He lives on forever in our hearts and minds.”
James died Oct. 20 at age 80 from pancreatic cancer.