The beloved Blue Valley football and track coach Eric Driskell died at 4:53 p.m. Wednesday, according to Research Medical Center.
“On behalf of the Driskell family, we are confirming the passing of beloved Coach Eric Driskell and his plans for organ donation. Even in his passing, he chose to give to others. The family deeply appreciates all of the loving support and asks for privacy at this time of great personal loss,” said Dr. Jayson Neil, Neurosurgeon, Research Medical Center.
Driskell's wife posted an update on Facebook on Wednesday:
"The world is a better place because Coach Eric Driskell was a part of it. It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share that Eric Driskell has officially left this world on February 15th at 4:53pm. Even in his passing he still is giving to others; giving the gift of life through organ donation. The outpouring of love has been overwhelming and felt by all. Stories of his impact on your lives have been so uplifting in this difficult time. Thank you for those. Please continue to pray for our children, Rachel & Laurel."
He suffered from a ruptured brain aneurysmover the weekend that doctors said caused irreversible brain damage.
He’s been on life support ever since.
He died surrounded by his family. He was 43 years old.
The memorial is set for 11 a.m. Saturday at the Church of the Resurrection.
A GoFundMe page is set up to raise money for the Driskell family. Blue Valley West students are also planning to wear yellow and gold on Thursday in support.
Make sure to wear your gold/yellow shirts tomorrow to support our Blue Valley family! #BvStrong
— Jaguar Pride Co. (@BVW_JPCo) February 15, 2017
Driskell taught physical education and weightlifting at Blue Valley, as well as being the head football and track coach. He coached two state championship teams, in 2010 and 2013. He won the state title playing for Blue Valley back in 1991. He played on the offensive line for Baker University. Driskell was also named head football coach in 2010 and was recently honored with the 2016 Kansas Coach of the Year Award.
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