The University of Akron Athletics
Gerard A. Faust: In Memoriam
November 15 | General
The University of Akron joins with the broader Akron and sports communities in mourning the passing of former UA football coach Gerard "Gerry" Faust. He passed away Nov. 11 at age 89.
A man of profound faith, Faust touched and impacted lives in every community in which he lived. Faust was synonymous with football but made a difference far beyond the field. A Dayton, Ohio, native who first built his legend coaching Cincinnati Moeller High School to five state championships, he would move to the national collegiate level, coaching first at the University of Notre Dame before leading the UA football program.
Known for his trademark booming, raspy voice, it was Faust's words that always uplifted whomever he spoke with. Touted by many for his infectious, engaging spirit, Faust relished bringing people together and building camaraderie based on his guiding pillars – strong faith, love of family, peace of mind and learning to give in life.
Faust took over the Akron football program in 1985. He led the program as the Zips moved from NCAA Division I-AA to Division I-A at the start of the 1987 season. After completing his tenure as Akron's football coach, Faust became a prominent UA fundraiser and "friend-raiser," serving as assistant vice president for University Development.
"Gerry Faust was one-of-a-kind," said Kim Cole, vice president for advancement and executive director of the UA Foundation. "His infectious enthusiasm and dedication to UA left a lasting impact on everyone he met. We will cherish his memory and honor his legacy."
A man of profound faith, Faust touched and impacted lives in every community in which he lived. Faust was synonymous with football but made a difference far beyond the field. A Dayton, Ohio, native who first built his legend coaching Cincinnati Moeller High School to five state championships, he would move to the national collegiate level, coaching first at the University of Notre Dame before leading the UA football program.
Known for his trademark booming, raspy voice, it was Faust's words that always uplifted whomever he spoke with. Touted by many for his infectious, engaging spirit, Faust relished bringing people together and building camaraderie based on his guiding pillars – strong faith, love of family, peace of mind and learning to give in life.
Faust took over the Akron football program in 1985. He led the program as the Zips moved from NCAA Division I-AA to Division I-A at the start of the 1987 season. After completing his tenure as Akron's football coach, Faust became a prominent UA fundraiser and "friend-raiser," serving as assistant vice president for University Development.
"Gerry Faust was one-of-a-kind," said Kim Cole, vice president for advancement and executive director of the UA Foundation. "His infectious enthusiasm and dedication to UA left a lasting impact on everyone he met. We will cherish his memory and honor his legacy."
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