BREAKING: Former KSU assistant football coach dies at age 62
Kansas State Mourns the Loss of Former Assistant Coach at Age 62
Kansas State University and the football world are mourning the loss of former assistant coach Dana Dimel, who passed away at the age of 62. The news was announced Tuesday by his family, who shared the heartbreaking news of his death. Dimel is survived by his wife, Julie, and children, Winston and Josey.
Dimel had a profound impact on Kansas State football over the course of his career, spending 20 years as part of Bill Snyder’s coaching staff. His legacy stretches beyond his work as a coach; he was also an All-American offensive tackle for K-State from 1984 to 1986, where he played an integral role in the foundation of a program that would go on to enjoy significant success in the years that followed.
A news release from Kansas State Athletics confirmed that Dimel had spent the 2024 season as part of Bret Bielema’s staff at Illinois, following a storied career in both coaching and playing. Dimel’s dedication to the sport and his players left a lasting impression, and his connection to K-State football remained strong throughout his career.
Dimel’s coaching journey began in 1987 as a graduate assistant at Kansas State, and his tenure there would span three distinct periods. From 1989 to 1996, Dimel served as an assistant coach, before returning for one season in 2005. His most extended and influential period at K-State came between 2009 and 2017 when he served as the offensive coordinator and running backs-tight ends coach for nine seasons. His work was instrumental in the Wildcats’ success, which included an 11-win season in 2012, a Big 12 Championship, and multiple top-25 rankings in the BCS and CFP.
Over his 19 years at K-State, Dimel helped the Wildcats secure spots in 12 bowl games, marking some of the most successful seasons in school history. During this period, Kansas State saw significant achievements, including multiple 10-win seasons in 1995, 2011, and 2012. Dimel’s coaching played a pivotal role in the development of the program, and he was instrumental in its rise to prominence in college football.
Dimel was also one of the most successful offensive coordinators in the country during his time at K-State, compiling the most wins of any active offensive coordinator in college football from 2011 to 2017. He mentored 37 players who went on to have careers in the NFL, a testament to his ability to develop talent and leave a lasting impact on the lives of the athletes he coached.
In addition to his tenure at Kansas State, Dimel had head coaching positions at Wyoming (1997-1999), Houston (2000-2002), and UTEP (2018-2023), where he continued to build his reputation as a respected leader in college football.
Bill Snyder, the legendary Kansas State head coach who worked closely with Dimel, expressed his deep sadness at the loss. “Obviously, we are very saddened by the passing of Dana. He was a special friend and coaching companion,” Snyder said. “I admired his passion for helping his players and fellow coaches. He was a big part of the development of the Kansas State football program, and along with his wife Julie, very meaningful in the Manhattan community.”
Current K-State head coach Chris Klieman also shared his condolences: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Dimel family during this difficult time. Dana not only had a big impact on K-State Football but more importantly the lives of the players, coaches, and staff he interacted with daily—some of which are still in our program today.”
Dana Dimel’s contributions to Kansas State football and the wider college football community will not be forgotten. His legacy will live on in the players he mentored, the teams he helped build, and the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.