CHAMPAIGN, IL. (THECOUNT) — Dana Dimel, Senior Offensive Assistant for the Illinois Fighting Illini football team, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 62, Illinois Athletics confirmed. He leaves behind his wife, Julie, and their sons, Winston and Joey.
“Today is a difficult day for college football and our Illini famILLy,” head coach Bret Bielema said in a statement. “Dana was an exceptional person, husband, father, friend, and football coach. He affected the lives of countless coaches, players, and staff members for more than three decades in college football. His influence on our program was incredible to witness and be a part of. His infectious positive energy had a major impact on me, our players, and everyone in our building every day. He will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.”
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A Distinguished Career in College Football
Dimel, a Columbus, Ohio native, dedicated 35 years to college football coaching after an All-America playing career as an offensive tackle at Kansas State University. He spent 19 of those years on the Wildcats’ coaching staff under Hall of Fame coach Bill Snyder, contributing to the success of 12 bowl teams, including eight consecutive appearances from 2010 to 2017. Dimel was instrumental in Kansas State’s 2012 Big 12 Championship win and their consistent top-25 finishes in the BCS and College Football Playoff rankings during his tenure.
Dana Dimel impacted countless student-athletes and people through his football journey and the Illinois famILLy was lucky to have him on our staff.
Our love and thoughts are with his family. pic.twitter.com/AqcKnJSv9a
— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) December 3, 2024
Extending our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of longtime Coach Dana Dimel, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 62.
Dimel had an All-America playing career as an offensive tackle for the Wildcats from 1984-86 and served three stints as a coach on Snyder's staff.… pic.twitter.com/6zXhFXST0X
— K-State Football (@KStateFB) December 3, 2024
Statement on the passing of Dana Dimel. pic.twitter.com/tPTSSQHkhI
— Pete Roussel (@PeteRoussel) December 3, 2024
Dimel’s time as an offensive coordinator was marked by remarkable success, with his teams amassing 61 victories from 2011 to 2017 — the highest among offensive coordinators during that span.
Leadership Across Multiple Programs
In addition to his time at Kansas State, Dimel served as head coach for three collegiate programs: Wyoming (1997–1999), Houston (2000–2002), and the University of Texas at El Paso (2018–2023). This season, Dimel joined the Illinois Fighting Illini coaching staff, contributing to their 9-3 record and upcoming bowl game.
A Legacy of Mentorship
Over his career, Dimel mentored 37 players who went on to play in the NFL, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and the athletes he coached. His passion for football and dedication to his players earned him respect and admiration across the college football community.
Dimel’s death is a profound loss for the Illini family and the broader football world. Tributes continue to pour in, reflecting the deep impact he had on countless lives throughout his career.
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