Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Wes Santee Obituary
Daughter Susie Santee said her father died at his home in Eureka.
Santee, an Ashland native, set world records in the 1,500 meters and the indoor mile. He also won NCAA championships in the mile and 5,000, and won the NCAA cross-country championship in 1953 when his University of Kansas squad won the team title.
"Wes Santee was one of KU's all-time greats, not just in track and field, but in the history of Kansas athletics," Kansas interim athletic director Sean Lester said in a release Sunday. "He loved KU and the entire Kansas family will miss him. Our hearts go out to his family."
Santee is best known for his competition with Roger Bannister of England and John Landy of Australia from 1952 to 1954 to be the first runner to break 4 minutes for the mile. Bannister eventually did it, with a time of 3:59.4 on May 6, 1954. Their competition was the subject of an ESPN documentary and movie and a book, "The Perfect Mile" by Neal Bascomb, published in 2004.
"I am not exceptionally disappointed," Santee said the day Bannister broke the barrier. "There still is the challenge to see who will be the first American to break the 4-minute mile."
But Santee never broke the 4-minute barrier. It was Don Bowden of California who became the first American to accomplish the feat, with a time of 3:58.7 in 1957, after Santee's career had ended.
As a 20-year-old college sophomore, Santee made the 1952 U.S. Olympic team in the 5,000, a distance he had run only a few times.
He was the best American at 1,500 that year, but Amateur Athletic Union officials refused to allow him to compete for the Olympic team in that event on the grounds that he had already made the team in the 5,000 - an arbitrary ruling that had no legal basis. Santee ended up competing in the 5,000 at the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, but didn't win a medal.
His feud with the AAU culminated in the organization ruling him ineligible for further amateur competition for allegedly accepting too much expense money from meet promoters. A U.S. senator intervened on Santee's behalf, but a court ruled that the AAU had the power to ban him because of its control over amateur sports.
At one point, Santee had run three of the four fastest mile times in history.
One of those came in June 1954, in a race in the Los Angeles Coliseum against Olympic champion Josef Barthel.
"Barthel passed me after the third lap right at 3:00 flat," Santee told The Associated Press in an interview in 2005, the year he was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame. Santee sprinted and passed Barthel, more intent on winning the race than on breaking 4 minutes.
"I tied up coming off the curve," he said - but he held on to win in 4:00.7.
In 1955, Santee set indoor world records in the 1,500 and the mile and improved his time in the outdoor mile.
Then, in the Olympic year of 1956, the AAU declared him ineligible and ruled that anyone who competed against him would also be ineligible for amateur competition. That ended his career - at the age of 24.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
55 Entries
Clint Milbourn
July 20, 2025
When Wes was living in Eureka he came to a HS girls cross country meet to watch my daughter run. Ron Koppenhaver introduced me to Wes. Wes was a true gentleman and wish we could´ve talked longer
huntington
March 4, 2025
He taught me some tips when I was in track in 8th grade.
I was still slow lol. He was a kind and driven guy
Kim Hartzell
December 18, 2021
Having just read the book The Perfect Mile, I was in awe of his life story and sadden to find that Wes has left this earth. My belated condolences to his family.
Frank Hamilton
June 8, 2017
I was a High School miler of just average ability. But I picked up a nick name there "Wes" in 1956. That nick name faded after High School but I picked up running later in life running the Boston Marathon in 1982 at age 42. Thanks Wes for being a great model.
How you can show support
Bruce Adair
January 15, 2012
I started running after Wes spoke at our Junior High during the Drake Relays. I had a wonderful life of running and coaching because of meeting Wes.
Alden Mann
April 4, 2011
I was at Parris Island when I first heard of Wes Santee and his record breaking accomplishment breaking the four minute mile. Others have since accomplished a faster mile,but Wes was the first. Ive never forgotten his name and accomplishment. R.I.P. Marine.
ralph moody
December 25, 2010
Dana Lou and family I never met: Wes and I came from the Iroquois league, W. Kans. Frank Cindrich. Dick Blair, Wes and I set a world's relay record. He was our leader, mentor and final leg in our victory. We were Acacia roommates and friends. He encouraged me, a wheat farmer, during trying football times. I remember his big brother talks and read that others saw that in him too. I am sorry he left before I, but believe we will meet again soon, and run together where spirits never die. My sincerest thoughts go to all his family, and wished we could meet. May we retain our minds so that rememberances stay with us all our days. God bless family, KU, and the USA.
Desi (Angelo) Viner
December 23, 2010
To the Santee Family,
I had the absolute pleasure of being a nurse to Wes during his fight with cancer. Every time I saw Wes's name on the schedule I knew my day, no matter how good or bad it was going, would get better by just seeing him. He was full of life and so many interesting stories. I loved hearing about his great accomplishments during his career as an athlete.
I was deeply touched and sorrowful to hear about Wes's death. My condolences to your family, and this world, for losing such a wonderful human being.
Desi (Angelo) Viner
December 23, 2010
To the Santee Family,
I had the absolute pleasure of being a nurse to Wes during his fight with cancer. Every time I saw Wes's name on the schedule I knew my day, no matter how good, or bad, it was going, would get better by just seeing him. He was full of life and so many interesting stories. I loved hearing about his great accomplishments during his career as an athlete.
I was deeply touched and sorrowful to hear about Wes's death. My condolences to your family, and this world, for losing such a wonderful human being.
Jan
November 25, 2010
To the Santee Family,
I was so saddened to hear the news of Wes. My deepest condolences go out to you all for your loss. May all the wonderful memories he left behind always bring a smile to those he loved.
And most of all, may the God of Hope, give you comfort with a promise.
"He will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will sickness nor suffering nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." (NWT)
Patricia Wood
November 23, 2010
I remember being on the KU Campus, sometime in the late '50s, maybe with the Ottawa High School marching band. I saw a man running down the street adjacent to the stadium and then from one end of the field to the other. I asked someone, "Hey, who is that?" Oh, they said, "That's Wes Santee, he runs everywhere around here." That was a long time before jogging was commonplace and it was unusual "to run everywhere around here." A man before his time.
November 20, 2010
Wes Santee was a loyal friend to my husband, Don Humphreys; they were class mates in Ashland, KS; and Wes spoke eloquently of their friendship at my husband's memorial service. I am deeply sorry to know of Wes's illness and death.
November 20, 2010
Floyd Seeburn & Family Joillotte, La.
Newt Draheim
November 19, 2010
At the Des Noines Drake University track in early 1950's,my wife and I witnessed Wes attempt to make the four minute mile. He was running against a strong wind.
Newt Drahim, Judge
Judgenewt@mchsi P.S. What was Glen Cunningham's mile rcood??
Marian Washington
November 18, 2010
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Wes Santee. In the early 70's I met Wes through Coach Bill Easton who was coaching me in the discus at the time. Coach Easton was a second father to Wes. Over the years, Coach Easton, his wife and Wes became some of my dearest friends and supporters. Wes represented all that was good in athletics; he was a great athlete and a loyal Kansas supporter. If he was in the area, he would always come by to say hello. I will miss his hugs and his enthusiasm for life. My prayers go out to his family. May God bless you with peace and comfort. Wes was a wonderful friend and he will be dearly missed.
Frank Yeoman
November 18, 2010
I'm sorry I didn't get to meet this man that I knew of all my life. I too grew up in Clark County and "Wes Santee" was famous locally before he became a State, National and even an International star. My aunt Christine Yeoman (now Woodard) had her first teaching job at Ashland High School and speaks of her talks with Wes Santee who was then a high school student and already a runner of note. May he rest in peace. My condolences to all his family!
November 18, 2010
Wes is certainly a Legacy for Ashland. I recall him visiting us in grade school.
Prayers and heartfelt sympathy to the Santee family. ~ Jon Swayze Ashland, Ks.
Shirley Griffin
November 18, 2010
I am sorry for your loss, may the God of all comfort and tender mercies be with you in your time of grief.
jerry shuman
November 18, 2010
glad i got to see and talk to wes at the ashland high school reunion back in may. when i was in grade schoo at ashland and wes was running around the world, he took the time to visit us. afyer he went to all 8 class rooms, we assembled in the gym and he showed us films of his races, never will forget that day or wes,
susie santee pritchett
November 17, 2010
As long as I can remember, Wes has been an important part of my life - my family! He was my hero and I thought he was wonderful! As a "Santee" I was proud of his accomplishments and also who he was! Our visits were sporadic but always special. Last summer he told me of his cancer battle. We both cried. I tried to get in touch with Susie and Bob when I was visiting in Lawrence to no avail! I particularly wanted to see Susie because Wes always told me he named her after me! I am deeply saddened. My family will include our Kansas cousins in our thoughts and prayers. in this time of sorrow.
Dennis Swaney
November 17, 2010
I only knew Wes from his running exploits
when I was a young boy in Eastern SD,
He,of course, will be remembered as one
of the best. May he have a richly deserved rest in peace.
Eddie Michael
November 17, 2010
Wes Santee was the Honorary Starter at the Centennial League Cross Country meet I competed in North of Topeka in 1961. I never forgot getting to see him in person.
Russ Waugh
November 17, 2010
Wes: RIP old friend. Semper Fi. Russ Waugh 2-55
Don Learned
November 16, 2010
To Wes Santee Family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. I met Wes when he ran for Ashland as my uncle, Paul Nichol, was a math teacher for him. Then several years ago his grandson Wes was playing soccer when his high school played Great Bend. I visited with young Wes' mother and we talked about how great of a runner Wes was while at KU. I am a retired building principal from Great Bend.
He was a great person and someone who will go down in KU track history like Glen Cunningham, Jim Ryan, and Wes.
I have enjoyed watching him throughout his life. May God bless your family.
Jim DeCicco
November 16, 2010
To the Santee Family,
Please accept my profound sympathy on the recent passing of a great American. It was my honor to serve with Wes during our time together in the USMC.
Albert Alioto
November 16, 2010
I only knew Mr. Santee from having read about him.
Clearly, the world was a better place because he was a
part of it. May God grant him rest.
Loren Schleining
November 16, 2010
It has been a true pleasure to have been able to not only work with Wes but to call him a true friend. I was always patriotic but knowing Wes and listening to his many stories made me even prouder to be an american. When I started working with him in 2002 he took me under his wing and was always there to encourage me to do my best and shoot for the stars. He will be dearly missed.
November 16, 2010
Mr. Santee was certainly a person of humility. What a wonderful hope of seeing our love ones again and enjoying a life of peace and happiness with them the way it was originally meant to be. Psalms 37:29
jon jubla
November 16, 2010
god bless wes santee one of my heroes growing up
Ken & Michele Garrett
November 16, 2010
Dear Suzie and Family,
Ken and I were saddened to hear about the loss of your beloved father/grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and yours during this time of sorrow...
November 16, 2010
Doris and the rest of the family -
It was such a great honor to get to know Wes on a "first-name" basis; especially at the Presbyterian Church. Wes exuded grace, dignity, patriotism, honor and Christian values in everything he did. His willingness to allow himself to be the center of attention was never an exercise in self aggrandizement, but an opportunity to encourage others to reach for the stars. And he always wore his Kansas roots with pride. I join the thousands that will miss him dearly and wish you only God's comfort in this time of loss.
David Y.
El Dorado, Kansas
November 16, 2010
I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Santee, but he and Jim Ryun were inspirations for me as athletes and gentlemen. I am saddened to read of Mr. Santee's passing. May the family find comfort in reflecting on the life of this fine gentleman...a Marine officer and an Olympian! Gaylon Ryan, Smithfield Virginia
Ben P.
November 16, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tom Gugliuzza
November 16, 2010
Heartfelt sympathy to the Santee family.
Rob & Kim Anderson
November 15, 2010
Col. Santee was and still is a one of a kind. He took of his own time to share with the local Young Marines, and had a way to make each and every person feel special. We have some great memories. He touched many people.
God Bless the Col. and his family.
R Golay
November 15, 2010
To the the family of Wes Santee - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Wes will be missed by many.
John Thomas
November 15, 2010
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Santee on a few occasions. He was very much a humble gentleman and a true patriot. God Bless you sir.
November 15, 2010
May the family of Wes be comforted by the words of the scripture that there is going to be a resurrection. At that time hopefully you will be able to see him again.
Brian Glotzbach
November 15, 2010
I read the book "The Perfect Mile" and found myself rooting for Mr. Santee to break the 4 minute mile first even though I knew that it didn't happen that way. Still his efforts inspired my own running at which I was far less proficient. His work ethic and battle with the AAU helped future athletes to enjoy success in the sport as paid professionals that he was wrongly denied. My condolences to the family.
Evy Shoup
November 15, 2010
I met Wes as he moved to his lake home in Eureka. What a kind hearted gentleman.He was always asking how my daughter Natalie was doing in track in high school.He was so interested in the young athletes.What a pleasure to have known him. Evy Shoup
Tom Huxtable
November 15, 2010
Wes was an outstanding Marine and was my friend in the Marine Corps League. If the League can do anything for the family please contact us.
Semper Fi, my friend.
November 15, 2010
To the family of Wes Santee
It was with great sadness that I read Wes' obituary. I met him when he competed in the Kansas Senior Olympics and represented Kansas at the National Senior Games in Tucson. My staff and I had great fun cheering him on yelling "Go Kansas". Wes was a delightful gentleman, a great athlete and an outstanding Kansan. He will be missed.
Sincerely,
Marge Rightmeier, Former Director
Kansas Senior Olympics/Parks and Rec. of Topeka
Edinburg, TX
Pat
November 15, 2010
A hero to a lot of kids in the 1950s. Thanks Wes
Martha
November 15, 2010
As a K.U. student in the '50's, I was an admirer of Wes and all of his accomplishments in life. My condolences to his family.
David Gordon
November 15, 2010
Rock Chalk Jayhawk, Wes! I'd say
Godspeed, but I hardly think that
would be necessary in your case,
Wes.
Dan Lykins
November 14, 2010
Wes and I served on the State of Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in the early 1990's. Wes was a true sports fan. I admired Wes so much. He did not know what quitting meant. I will miss my good friend. God Bless Wes Santee.
Diane Santee Quinn
November 14, 2010
So sorry to hear about the loss of our "cousin". He was a great guy and we are always proud to say that he was in our family. Mom and Dad had lots of memories of their times with Wes and his family.
I first heard about Mr. Santee from the inspirational book the Perfect Mile and I had the distinct honor to meet Mr. Santee at the 2008 Olympic trial
mark norton
November 14, 2010
Mark Eagleton
November 14, 2010
As a young runner, growing up in Kansas, I was a fan of the great running program at KU. As an impressionable teenager, I saw a "Where are they now?" article on Wes and wrote for his autograph, which he very kindly responded to. He was truly a great runner-Mark Eagleton
Alan Levine
November 14, 2010
He was my idol in high school. I was on the track team, but not a very fast runner. I adopted the nickname "Wes" for myself, and one of my high school friends still calls me that.
November 14, 2010
Condolences to the family of Wes. We were in college with him. He was a winner. Frank H. & Sondra Long Chesky
Dave Neff
November 14, 2010
Wes Santee was one of my idols, when I was a boy; breaking the 4-minute mile was a major achievement, and he almost did it! I still run twice a week to this day. Thanks, Wes!
Showing 1 - 55 of 55 results
Make a Donation
in Wes Santee's name
How to support Wes's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Wes Santee's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored