Dwayne Schintzius

Dwayne Schintzius

Dwayne Schintzius Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 17, 2012.
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Former University of Florida basketball star Dwayne Schintzius, who also played in the NBA, has died after a two-year battle against cancer. He was 43.

Relatives say Schintzius died Sunday at a Tampa hospital following complications from a failed bone marrow transplant. Schintzius began treatment for leukemia in 2010.

The 7-foot-2 center played for the Gators from 1987 to 1990, helping Florida to its first three NCAA Tournament appearances. He is Florida's sixth-highest scorer with 1,624 points.

Schintzius was drafted 24th overall in the first round by the San Antonio Spurs in 1990. He also played for the Kings, Nets, Pacers, Clippers and Celtics during an eight-year professional career.


Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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182 Entries

April 15, 2017

Death is something that God did not wanted us to experience and that is why He said what He said at Eccl.3:11. I am sorry for your loss to the family and friends and may He be with you all.

Harry Simpson

April 15, 2016

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

Keith Bollett

February 7, 2016

Dwayne, I was in your 1st Grade or 2nd Grade class at Seffner Elementary School. I was allways the shortest kid...so I had a complete understanding of growing up different. You and I had a conversation via text after your marrow transplant. We both agreed at how unimportant money really is in this life. It really has nothing to do with being "successful" or happy. RIP big guy.

Scott Levison

January 23, 2016

Once a Celtic..always a Celtic....

Jordynne Minot

March 4, 2015

Rest in peace.

Lisa Weiner

January 21, 2013

To Dwayne Schintzius,
You were a fantastic basketball player for the NBA Celtics. My prayers are with your family. Lisa Weiner

Mike Anderson #22

November 6, 2012

I was just informed of Dwayne's passing! My prayers are with the entire family. I still remember the Brandon Highschool ball club with Tony, Jim Williamson, Brian Wilson, Roy Hartline, Mike Mondsini, John Ferina and more. We will miss the big man!

Many people don't understand why we practice so hard? The end result is what we remember the best!!

Leroy Staley

July 11, 2012

Leroy Staley

July 11, 2012

God heals all hearts and Dwayne heart was very big as a player and a home town hero. My prayers are with his Family.

2Corinthians 1:3,4 KL

June 30, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Dee Keiser

June 25, 2012

I had the pleasure of seeing Dwayne play at UF and saw some of his antics in Coach Mac's class. He was indeed a Gator great. My prayers are with his family.

Jarrod Jordan

June 22, 2012

GOD BLESS THE FAMILY. GOD BE WITH YOU ALL. I MET BIG D in the middle of okeechobee FL. ON A HUNTING TRIP WITH THE TOMLINSON'S. WHAT A FUNNY FUNNY GUY. I'm 6"4",I NEVER LOOK UP TO ANYONE HE WAS THE FIRST. GREAT PERSON AWESOME HUNTING TRIP. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

Tammy Selman

June 11, 2012

Was thinking of you today!!

Audrey Schintzius

June 11, 2012

one more angel around me.. i just wish i could have one more hug and kiss from you. you light up the room when you walk in. watching old videos on youtube of you just to hear your voice. "gone but not forgotten"

s carter

May 22, 2012

May God wrap His loving arms around you and give you comfort....

jenni ramirez

May 22, 2012

may peace be with the family and friends.and may something good surface from this loss.God rest his soul.

Chelsea Schintzius

May 19, 2012

"miss me but let me go"

Cheryl DeLong

May 18, 2012

So sorry to hear of your lose. I remember how proud Ken was of his son.

Dwayne Schintzius silhouette

Sylvana Zuniga

May 16, 2012

I am so heart broken by Dwayne's passing.

Although I knew Dwayne for sixteen years, funny enough I never saw him play basketball. To me he was just a great guy. Someone who loved his family. Someone with great wit and sense of humor. Someone that enjoyed playing pranks on his friends. Someone that could right a snarky poem. Someone that often joked he really should have been a professional whistler. Someone I will miss.

Dwayne Schintzius silhouette

May 16, 2012

Larry Justice

May 15, 2012

For those of us that were fortunate enough to really get to know Dwayne Schintzius he was much more than a professional athlete. He was a kind, generous, humble, considerate, gentle, polite, deeply thoughtful, sensitive, sarcastic, funny, fun loving, and a compassionate individual. It was a privilege and an honor to have him as a friend.
Dwayne was truly blessed in many different ways and I think we who knew him were blessed as well. Ask yourself this question. When will any of us in this lifetime every meet a person like Dwayne again? We'll never be that lucky. But, he will always remain in my heart and I know one day I'll be lucky enough to see him again.

Sara Candelario

May 12, 2012

My condolences to Linda, Ken, Travis and to all the rest of the Schintzius family, it was a pleasure to have met you Dwayne, thanks for making me laugh with you humor. I know it was to early for you to have left this Earth but God needed a strong angel to help Him look over all of us. Thank you for allowing me to know you and now that you are in God's arms I can now say "Ivan made basket".

Cindy (diller) Farris

May 11, 2012

I will never forget the day your father brought the HCSO helicopter to Seffner Elementary School....seems like yesterday.... I pray for comfort for your family..knowing that one day you will all be together again in Heaven... God bless

Bob Bellard

May 10, 2012

I followed Dwayne's career at Florida and idolized him. I was shocked to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathy's to his family and friends. May God bless you....... Rest in peace my friend.......

Dan

May 10, 2012

Dwayne - thanks so much for your message of encouragment when I was diagnosed with leukemia in 2011. You gave me so much hope and inspiration, and I will always be thankful for that. There is a hollow place in the world that cannot be filled without your presence, and we are all blessed to have had you amongst us. And I loved watching you play ball when I was a student at Florida (87 - 92). You were da man! Rest in peace my friend, and Go Gators...

Eileen Riordan

May 6, 2012

Dwayne, We built a tree house when we were kids behind your parents house! We grew up with each other and I followed you and your basketball career. I know God took you home to be with Him,never to suffer again. May God bless your parents,brother,and the rest of your family and friends. I will keep them in my prayers. Love Ya, Eileen Riordan

Joseph Philipp

May 6, 2012

Those that suffer on earth are closer to getting to heaven......

Jason Polinger

May 5, 2012

I am so sorry to hear you are gone. You were always really down to earth & nice when ever you'd come into Oakfiled lanes & I was working (we never did have shoes that would fit you:). You'll be missed

Carmen D

May 5, 2012

I attended Brandon High School with Dwayne. He was very nice and always had a smile for everyone. He will be missed. My condolences to the family.

David Goldberg

May 1, 2012

I will always keep a good thought for Dwayne and his family. We hadn't seen him since he left NJ, but I'll remember him as a fine and funny guy whose interests and impact were always stronger off the court. He will be missed.

Amy (Puchi) Trisch

April 30, 2012

I am so sorry to hear that Dwayne has passed. We went to school together, Seffner Elementry to Brandon High. I always remember him being a kind soul.He will be missed by all of those who had the pleasure of knowing him...

Herman Callender

April 30, 2012

So sorry to hear you are gone.We had so much fun telling jokes on each other in English class and more fun in B-Ball practice.You were a good friend.Rest in God's arms now friend...Herman

Bradley Price

April 29, 2012

Ken very sorry for your lost Just know God needed a new angle in heaven Dwayne is now with god and knows true peace He now watches over you with God

Brian Becker

April 28, 2012

Please take solace in knowing that Dwayne lived a full life. I have known him for the past eleven years and he was a great guy! He will be missed.

Jon Belk

April 28, 2012

May God Bless and soothe the family during this time and the future. Dwayne was a great guy and athlete. I remember when we competed in high school with fond memories. The world and the area lost a positive person.

Neal & April Howard

April 27, 2012

Dwayne was a very dear friend of ours. We love and miss him everyday.

gerald rhymes

April 27, 2012

Dewayne was one of my childhood idols growing up so it saddens me to hear of his passing i hope that gator nation does something to honor one of the best players and person who ever played for the program and god bless his family

Bruce Derenthal

April 27, 2012

I guess the Lord decided bring Dwayne in off the bench to anchor his frontcourt. I believe that if anyone could beat this thing it would have been him, and am saddened at his passing. I am hoping to focus on the time he was here and the experiences I shared with him, and not the fact that he is now gone. God bless Ken, Linda, Travis and the rest of the family during this trying time.

Karen McCarthy

April 25, 2012

I just got the news. This is so sad. I remember so many fun times we all had together with Robert, Little Robbie, Becky, Parker and the rest of the gang. My heart aches.

Benita Brown

April 24, 2012

I haven't seen Dwayne since he was playing little league baseball with my son Shane at East Point, but I have kept up with his career and was so proud of him. I knew back then that he would go far. It's so hard when our children are taken from us. My heart goes out to you all at this time.

Bill Kirk

April 24, 2012

God be your light and lamp unto thy feet. You will see the bright of day again

Jeff O'Connor

April 23, 2012

I was so saddend to hear of Dwayne's passing. It does not seem fair that he was taken from us at such a young age - he deserved better. He was always happy, cheerful and optimistic. He could always see the bright light of things even when I could not. I am honored to have known him for the past 20 years. Ken and Linda - you should be proud of the boy you raised into a truly great man. He will be judged by the many lives that he touched during his time with us. My thoughts are with you always.

April 21, 2012

Ken and Linda,
Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. May Dwayne rest in peace.
Donna Pitts (Suntrust Bank)

Frank Ferlita

April 21, 2012

Thoughts and prayers to Dwayne's family. It was a pleasure watching him play at UF.

Bills Prescription Ctr.

April 21, 2012

You are in our hearts and prayers and we are forever touched by your presence here. We were truly blessed to have met you and our deepest condolences go out to you and your family.Your friends at Bills Pres. Ctr Brandon,FL

Chuck LaFaye

April 21, 2012

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this most difficult time.

Anthony Kocsis

April 21, 2012

We are so very sorry for your loss. Dwayne and Anthony know what it's like to fight the good fight. Anthony takes comfort knowing that he will see a familiar face when he gets home. May god show his love to you all. The Kocsis Family, Anthony,Melody,Dallas,Madison and Hayden

Charlena Beacom

April 20, 2012

Dear Schintzius family, It was such a shock to see the Marquee at Brandon High School this week and learn of Dwayne's passing. I was a Senior at Brandon when Dwayne was a Sophmore. You always knew when he was walking right behind you because a tall shadow would come down over you. He was a sweet gentle guy. My sister graduated with Dwayne in 86, she to was so saddened to hear of loosing a classmate and sends her blessings as well. God be with your family. There are many people praying for your family that you don't even know. God gives us strength, when the water seems over your head,remember it is under HIS feet. He will carry you through!
Charlena (Nunley) Beacom Family, Teresa (Nunley)Vaccaro Family.

April 20, 2012

I have no words to lessen your grief but want to tell you Dwayne has been in my thoughts often. I remember vividly the last few conversations I had with him. Yes he was a basketball player, and a good one, but that pales compared to who he truly was. He was an intelligent, kindhearted, fun loving young man who I enjoyed immensely when I was one of his coaches. I will never forget our time together.
With respect,
Coach Gregg Popovich

Jim & Sherry Storch

April 20, 2012

So very sorry to hear this sad news-our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Linda Nickle

April 20, 2012

Ken & Linda, My prayers are with you and the family. Dwaynes' job here on earth is done, now he is in the arms of his heavenly father. God bless all of you.

carlos sanchez

April 20, 2012

my condolences to the schintzius family and our prayers are with you all. dwayne will be missed.

Ellie Balch-Ware

April 20, 2012

You walked the walk. May God bless you & keep you in his loving embrace. Condolences to the family.
Ellie Balch-Ware

April 20, 2012

It was an honor to take care of Dwayne. He is in peace and without pain now. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Jenny Cox

scott burruss

April 20, 2012

Rest in peace Dwayne, sad to see a former baller go so soon.

April 19, 2012

The impact of your family on Brandon goes far. All of us were once Jr. Deputies thanks to your father. And all of us Eagles and Gators proudly and fiercely claimed you as ours. Thanks for being part of this wonderful life for as long as you were. God Bless.
Brandon

April 19, 2012

From the C/O 86

Abbey Saunders

April 19, 2012

He was the man at BHS, he put the school on the map. My heart goes out to his family cause only God has his hands on all of us. BHS for life C/O of 86

Franklin Martin

April 19, 2012

In 1992, Dwayne became my first true NBA client. Our business relationship quickly turned into a special friendship. He ended up not just being a business partner, but one of the most loyal friends I've ever had. In the high stakes world of the NBA, especially between Agent and Player, that is rare.

At his best, Dwayne was able to come into a any room and lighten it up with quick-witted humor. He never let people around him feel bad for long and was always willing to listen to others. In a world of self-centered stars, Dwayne Schintzius was a welcome breath of fresh air. I love Dwayne and will miss him immensely.

Marquita Payne

April 19, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with Dwayne's family during this time. I really enjoyed his role in the movie "Eddie." I am sure he will be greatly missed! Go Celtics!!!

Judith Johnson - Gator Alum

April 19, 2012

May God bless the family and the entire Gator Nation during this difficult time. It was a pleasure to watch Dwayne play collegiately, professionally and in the movies!

Frank & Donna

April 19, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with Dwayne's family. He will be missed everyday, but his memory will live with you always.

Eric Poms

April 18, 2012

Dwayne was best known for his basketball successes and memorable persona on and off the court. For those of us that truly got to know him, he was simply a good man. His fight over the past few years was brave and courageous. He will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with Dwayne and the entire Schintzius family.

April 18, 2012

I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Laurie Loftis (Atlanta, GA)

Toni Burnett-Reed

April 18, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with your family and friends.

Bill Bodkin

April 18, 2012

Ken and Travis, sorry to hear that Dwayne lost his battle with cancer. Two weeks ago a good friend whose father was an NBA allstar also died of cancer and also quite young. You and yours are in our prayers. Bill Schintzius Bodkin (the family tree guy)

Madison Campbell

April 18, 2012

:(

jasper fischer

April 18, 2012

to the schintzius family my prayers and peace be with you...ssgt j.fischer united states marines corps roanoke va

Larry Flynn

April 18, 2012

Ken & family,

We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved son, Dwayne.

Larry & Andrea Flynn

Jimmy Barnes

April 18, 2012

Dear Linda and Ken you're in my pray's
Love
Jimmy Barnes

April 18, 2012

My prayers and love go out to the family!
Love
Melody Barnes and family

April 18, 2012

To the family: As you grieve of sadness may the "hearer of prayer" help you to endure this time of sorrow and grant you peace. My deepest condolences. (Psalms 65:2)

Jason Gallegos

April 18, 2012

Dwayne and I crossed paths on Facebook because of our disease. I too have CML and am post transplant survivor. Dwayne and I conversed frequently about life and our recovery for we were almost exaclty on the same time path. I owe it to Dwayne to live my life to it's fullest. My sincerest condolences to his family. God Bless!

denise williams

April 18, 2012

Im sorry for the loss and I will keep the family in my prayers. denise williams- houston

April 18, 2012

It was a pleasure working with Dwayne during his NBA Career and on the set of the movie "Eddie". So sorry to hear about his passing. My heart and prayers go out to his family. (Leah Wilcox, NBA)

Victor Wintress

April 18, 2012

My Thoughts and Prayers are with you and your Family

PJN

April 18, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

April 18, 2012

I am very sorry for your loss. May god be there to comfort your family. Cynthia Kelsoe

April 18, 2012

I am very sorry for your loss. May god be there to comfort your family. Cynthia Kelsoe

John Roshala

April 18, 2012

Thanks so much for being a Sacramento King! My prayers are with u in heaven

Cathy Schintzius

April 18, 2012

Uncle Ken, love you all so much. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Rick & Cat

The Serrins

April 18, 2012

Ken, Linda, and Travis, We are deeply sorry for the loss of a beloved son and brother. Prayers of peace and comfort in the days ahead. Sabrina, Tom, John Daniel and Benjamin Serrin

April 18, 2012

Thinking of you at this time. So sorry for your loss. The bible speaks of a time when "Death will be no more, neither mourning or outcry or pain be anymore. The former thiNgs have passed away." what a wonderful hope for our future.

April 18, 2012

A great hunting buddy and even greater friend. You will be missed by many. Robert "Butch" and Karen McDonald

April 18, 2012

So sad, So young and So unfair. May you rest in peace and sleep easy. My prayers are with you and your family. R.I.P.

David Saks

April 18, 2012

He was a great athlete.

April 18, 2012

May God Bless the love ones of Dwayne, he was a gentle giant who had a heart as big as he was. I spent time with him throughout the years, and he was always good to me, always laughing and loving life....I will miss looking up at him (way up) and miss our great conversations. He is now in Heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ...no doubt running some ball and clearing out the middle :-)

Terra Zajac

April 18, 2012

May God wrap his arms around Dwayne's family and comfort them at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

April 18, 2012

I am so sorry for your lost. May you and your family rely on God in this time if grief.

Diane Luke

April 18, 2012

My condolences to Dwayne's family. This young man's death is just another reason to hate cancer. Bless those who are working to eradicate this disease.

God bless this family in their hour of need.

April 18, 2012

God bless you and your loved ones. R.I.P.

April 18, 2012

May the God of all comfort be with you at this time of grief, may all Dwayne's memories stay close to your heart. Psalms 46:1 Joanna

Cliff Smither

April 18, 2012

Ken
I will be in NC on the 28TH but my thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Cliff Smither

Neighbor

April 18, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the family of Dwayne Schintzius. It brings much pain to our heart to lose a dear loved one.
May you cherish the memories. Let the God tender mercies comfort your heart.

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April 15, 2017

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April 15, 2016

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February 7, 2016

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