Mizzou icon John Kadlec dies

The Mizzou Athletic Department is confirming icon John Kadlec has died.

Kadlec, also known as Mr. Mizzou, has been involved with the school for more than 50 years. He’s taken on roles as a player, coach, broadcaster and athletic executive.

Kadlec was an all-conference lineman in 1950, and served as assistant football coach at Mizzou for years later.

He was also a familiar voice for Tiger Radio Network, announcing games for 16 seasons before retiring from the booth in 2010.

Many have taken to Twitter to express their condolences, including UM President Tim Wolfe who tweeted, “@UMPrez: Very sad to hear that Mr. Mizzou, John Kadlec, has passed away. He will surely be missed.”

Mike Alden, the director of athletics at Mizzou said, “John Kadlec was a special person. He was one of those rare people who made everyone feel special. The way he could light up a room was really something to see. He loved Mizzou so much and was such a blessing to those of us who had the good fortune of being part of his life. I worked closely with Coach on many issues over the years, and he never hesitated to be direct, supportive and straightforward. His honesty and candor were his trademarks. I’ll always treasure my time with him and his family. There will never be another person like John Kadlec. We will miss him.”

Gary Pinkel, the head football coach said, “Coach was such an amazing man, he was an absolute treasure for anyone who knew him. For me personally, he was someone I could always talk to, he always had some great wisdom to share, and he was always there for me in the toughest times. He was a ball coach, plain and simple, and he loved Mizzou with all he was worth. It’s hard to put into words how much he’ll be missed.”

Mike Kelly, Voice of the Tigers and longtime broadcast partner said, “I can’t imagine a more dedicated servant to the University of Missouri than John Kadlec. He was such an impressive man, all the years he devoted to Mizzou and to the football program he loved so much, and the impact he had on the lives of thousands of people, including me, was just amazing. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend to so many. It’s heartbreaking to lose him, but somebody like Kaddy will never be forgotten.”

Gary Link, Special Assistant to the Athletic Director, and longtime office mate said, “Coach Kadlec touched many people in his life and everyone he touched he made them feel special. I will always remember his `crooked smile’ and the twinkle in his eye, and he will live in my heart forever.”

As of Wednesday afternoon no official funeral arrangements have been made yet.