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Harry Keough Obituary
U.S. Soccer Federation spokesman Michael Kammarman said his death was confirmed by son Ty Keough, who also played for the American national team.
A defender who had one goal in 19 appearances for the U.S. from 1949-57, Keough coached Saint Louis University to five NCAA soccer titles. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1976.
Of all his accomplishments, Keough is best remembered for what happened in Brazil. He started all three games for the Americans at the1950 World Cup and was captain when the U.S. played Spain in its opener. The 1-0 win over England in the Americans' second game is regarded by many as the greatest upset in soccer history.
"We didn't feel we needed to beat them, but we felt if we could just play pretty good, it would be enough," Ke ough recalled in a 2002 interview with The Associated Press. "In our minds, if we lost 2-0, we'd feel pretty good about ourselves."
Growing up in St. Louis when it was the soccer center of the United States, Keough was a youth player for the St. Louis Schumachers. While serving in the Navy after World War II, he joined the San Francisco Barbarians. After the military, he played in St. Louis for Paul Schulte Motors and was picked for the U.S. team at the 1949 North American Football Confederation Championship, which served as qualifying for the World Cup.
He was among five from the St. Louis area in the starting lineup against England, a group profiled in the 2005 movie "The Game of their Lives."
On June 29, 1950, at Belo Horizonte, the U.S. faced a lineup that included Alf Ramsey, Tom Finney and Stanley Mortensen. Surprisingly, the Americans went ahead in the 37th minute when Walter Bahr collected a throw-in from Ed McIlvenny and took a shot from about 25 ya rds out that Joe Gaetjens deflected past goalkeeper Bert Williams with a diving header.
"They were outplaying us. We were chasing them most of the time," Keough said during a 2005 interview with the AP. "My thought was ... 'They're really going to come down on us hard.'"
"For us to be ahead at the half was one thing," he added. "For us to hold it was another."
A right back, Keough remembered the England players starting to panic in the final minutes.
"They could see it slipping from them," Keough said. "They didn't ever dream we could beat them. Neither did we, for that matter."
The U.S. held on for the victory, which was front-page news in England but was buried deep in most U.S. sports sections. The Americans fell behind Chile by two goals in their next game, came back to tie early in the second half but were eliminated with a 5-2 defeat.
Keough's only goal for the U.S. national team was against Canada in a World Cup qualifier in 1957. He also played for the American teams at the 1952 and 1956 Olympics, both eliminated with opening losses.
An employee of the U.S. Postal Service while a player, Keough coached Florissant Valley Community College, then was hired by St. Louis. His first team was NCAA co-champion in 1967, and he went on to coach the Billikens to titles in 1969, 1970, 1972 and 1973. He retired after the 1982 season with a record of 213 wins, 50 losses and 22 ties.
His son Ty played eight games for the American national team in 1979-80 and later broadcast soccer for ABC, ESPN and TNT.
With Keough's death, the USSF believes Bahr, Frank Borghi and John Souza are the last surviving members of the 1950 American World Cup team.
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
209 Entries
Wayne and Brenda Faulkenberry
March 24, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Don Garcia
March 21, 2012
Just got word from cousins visiting from St. Louis. You all have our deepest sympathy and prayers at this sad time.
My Dad, Prudencio(Pete) Garcia, counted Harry a true friend and had the utmost respect and admiration for all that Harry did for soccer and the community.
As a small boy I remember him as our mailman who was a great soccer player.
March 12, 2012
Alma, Tyge and John Lyons, We are so sorry to hear of Harry's passing! I sent a condolence note message on that day, but I am not sure that it got there. Harry will always be with us during each Induction ceremony where ever it is held! His story telling was always welcome . Great times for all of the boys who came to the Liar's Retreat. "Is Harry here yet", Chico Chacurian.
Our very best to all of you during these coming days and weeks. call ANYTIME ,
Peggy and George Brown
Charlie Huber
February 16, 2012
Sympathy is sent to the Keough family from all the kids who played soccer for Spanish Society in our early years. Harry was the player and coach we wanted to emulate both on and off the field.
Thanks for the loving memories!!
Charlie(Chuck)Huber Jr.
How you can show support
Ronald Coder
February 14, 2012
Dear Ty and family,
Sorry to hear of the loss of a friend and teammate from the 1956 U.S. Olympic Soccer Team. Harry was a great player on that team and I trusted him out in front keeping opponents away from me, the goalkeeper
Kevin Handlan
February 14, 2012
Ty and family, Please accept my condolences on your loss of Harry. My memories of time spent with Harry and his influence during my four years from 1973-77 at SLU bring great joy. The respect and admiration we all had for Harry was and is at it's highest level. I feel fortunate to have known him and played for him. May God bless you all.
Edwin Altomare
February 14, 2012
Dear Ty and family,
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your dad. I will remember Harry as an example of someone whose great achievements were only exceeded by his modesty, kindness and respect. He is easily on the World XI of gentlemen.
Edwin
Denny Huneke
February 13, 2012
To the Keough Family, Whenever Harry talked with someone else he always seemed good at getting some laughter going. The world could use more guys like that. Our family is praying for yours.
February 13, 2012
Although Harry will be greatly missed, I'm sure he is having fun playing with the Heaven XI. My prayers are with the family.
Buzz
February 12, 2012
dear Keough family, please accept our sympathy on the loss of your loved one, Harry. From the Rea family (Vicki, Gary, and Tom and Cathy Ruggeri-Rea) on Vermont Avenue
February 12, 2012
Ty,
I'm sorry I was not able to make the funeral Mass for your Dad, a great guy, but we were out of town all week. A Mass wil be offered in his name from our family. Bob Marquitz
Stephanie B.
February 12, 2012
My sincerest condolences
Mary Ellen O'Brien Long
February 11, 2012
I want to express my sympathy to Harry's family. Harry loved life and impacted so many children at Mid America Soccer Camps as the Director. He would bring his SLUH team to play against other college teams in to Maryville College on Thursday nites. Campers saw some of the best soccer in their lives. He would then talk with everyone on the top of the hill and people would line up to be with him.
Harry had Miguel de Lima, Terry Michler, and coaches from all over. He was a true ambassador of soccer. Harry's SLUH players were such great coaches at Mid America kids came back year after year! Well over 15 years. Thank you Harry! God bless
Mary Ellen O'Brien Long
St. Louis,Mo
Pat Schulze
February 11, 2012
My deepest Sympathy to the whole Keough Clan. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. So sorry that I was unable to attend Mass today. I had to work. The Keough's have been a part of our family since I started walking. God Bless you all.
David May Jr.
February 11, 2012
With sincere sympathy.
Les Hager
February 11, 2012
To: Ty and the Keough Family
My condolences and deep sympathy to your family. The warm memories I have coaching with you and Harry at Washington University will always have a warm spot in my heart. My prayers and good wishes are with the Keough family.
Les Hager
Mike Sorber
February 11, 2012
I would like to express my sympathy to the Keough family. We were blessed to have known and shared so many great experiences with the best, Harry. Thanks for being such a great example for all of us to follow.
Fred Vasquez
February 11, 2012
I had the opportunity of knowing Harry for over sixty years.His words of wisdom and encouragement greatly helped me as a player and in life itself. There is only one Harry Keough and fortunately I knew him. My deepest condolences to the Keough family and thanks Harry for everything you did for me.
John Newsham
February 11, 2012
My condolences to the Keough family. Harry had time for every player - Everyone who was on that team was equally as important as a human being - he showed no favorites - a great man with great faith. John Newsham
John MacKenzie
February 11, 2012
To the Keough Family,
I coached against Harry and found him to be an outstanding soccer personality. My team never beat his, yet he was always extremely gracious. We spoke at a coaches clinic in Chicago and he was the most entertaining speaker of all. This man loved the game and everything he did was reflected in that love. I have nothing but the greatest respect for Harry. He will be sorely missed by the soccer community and beyond.
John MacKenzie, Western Illinois Univ.
Jim Greeley
February 11, 2012
My dad knew Harry they were old time players. I can remember going to Fairgrounds park an playing and see Harry in his Post Office uniform just hanging around because he loved the game. He had to love it because I was 8 yrs old. He and Charlie Columbo of St. Ambrose were my favorites when I was a kid when Harry played for Kutis. All the best to the Keough family sorry for your loss!
Chris Hengen
February 11, 2012
Deepest Condolences to the entire Keough family. Because of my association with the SLU Hockey team, and being around Betty and Norma and the third Keough sister, Yvonne Roques, I got to know Betty and Norma better than Harry. But because I was at SLU at the same time as Colleen and Ty I got to see what a great father he must have been, and by being Dan Flynn's roommate and friend, I also got to see the impact that Harry had on his players, not only in making them better soccer players, but better people. This is very evident by all of the wonderful comments from former players. What a great part of the St. Louis sports scene the Keough family has been. I feel very privileged to have known all of you!
Chris Hengen
Colleen Berding
February 10, 2012
A word is more enduring than worldly wealth.~ Irish proverb
Thank you Harry Keough for sharing the wealth of your experience and stories about your life in South St. Louis with me one June day in 2005. Your words and stories live on for your family and those to come online at www.stbonifaceonline.com
My deepest sympathies to the entire Keough clan. Your kind husband, father, grandfather, and brother will be missed by many.
Don Copple
February 10, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Harry's passing. I was privileged to play for Harry at SLU from 1968-70 as a goalkeeper. Harry was the goalie coach as well as head coach. So I got to be with him quite often. He was without a doubt the kindest man I have ever known. I played for myself and my teammates like anyone else. But it was always uppermost in my mind not to fail Harry. He was not just my coach, but my friend.
In later years I would see him and always make it a point to talk to him at length. I so enjoyed our conversations. It's hard to imagine that he is gone. I will miss him.
My sincere condolences to the Keough family.
David Brcic
February 10, 2012
My Deepest Sympathy to Alma, Ty, Colleen, Peggy and entire Keough family. Simply, Harry is the person who opened all the doors for me and I will never forget him. He gave of himself for so many others like me. God will bless him again.
February 10, 2012
Keough Family,
So sorry for the loss of Harry. He changed "the game" -- as a player, as a coach, as an ambassador, as a father. Continued thoughts and prayers...
Dave and Nancy Berwin
Steve Otis
February 10, 2012
Harry gave me the opportunity to be part of history at SLUH. Those memories remain with me always just as his sly smile and quick wit remains with us all.
GOD bless you Harry!
February 10, 2012
Dear Alma, I want to express my sincere sympathy to you and your children as Harry was one special person who left a lasting influence on many many people. My biggest memory was my mother always telling me how you would always introduce my parents to people as "here are my friends 'Harry and Alma' and we are Harry and Alme" . Little did I know when I taught your daugher, years ago, at the Carondelet YMCA I was teaching someone who had such a famous dad. He will be missed by all. With sincere sympathy, Kathy (Schillinger) & Mark Fernandez
Gene Olaff
February 9, 2012
Dear Ty,
I was sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Looking back at his tremendous soccer record one could say he was one of the true pioneers and contributors to the advancement of soccer in our country. I was indeed privileged to be in the company of him and you at our annual visits to Oneonta, NY. I especially loved listening to him tell soccer stories. My Grandson, Gary, and I offer our condolences to you and your family.
Gene
[email protected]
Magaly Magaz
February 9, 2012
Dear Alma,
Our sincerest sympathy to you and the rest of the family. Marissa and I have fond memories of our visit to Guadalajara. Our times together wth you and Harry were always fun. Do you know that he taught me swim? He also taught me correct English (in a very gentle way) when I was recently arrived from Cuba to the US and trying to learn the language. I think of Harry as one of the most unforgetable persons I have ever met. I will remember you and your family in my prayers.
Love always,
Magaly
February 9, 2012
The Lord gave Mr.Keough many gifts and blessings,there was no better father and no better husband. May you finally be with the Lord in heaven.
Randy and Sue Ragsdale
Kathleen Beam
February 9, 2012
To the entire Keough family,
My deepest sympathies to your family during this time. Harry's granddaughter, Meredith, has been a dear friend of mine since high school and while I only had the opportunity to meet him a few times it is beyond apparent what a wonderful man he was. I hope your family can find comfort in how many lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind. My thoughts, prayers and love are will all of you during this difficult time.
chris
February 9, 2012
it is a rare blessing to be friends with your hero
Barry Gorman
February 9, 2012
Harry Keough was a true champion and one of soccer's truely great coaches and finest gentlemen. To know him was a pleasure and to be in his company a joy. Thanks for the memories Coach. Your impact and influences on American soccer and the families of so many will continue for lifetimes to come.
Jerry Yeagley
February 9, 2012
I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Keough family. In my early years of coaching, Harry Keough was my hero. I wanted to be like Harry. His St. Louis teams were a joy to watch let alone play against. Harry's teams played the beautiful game and his players reflected his values through their love of the game and their respect for the laws of the game. As a young coach I would try to pick Harry's brain, and I am sure I bugged him with my continual questioning. However, Harry always had time for me and openly shared his philosophy and coaching talents.
I so enjoyed his stories and unbelievable memory of past players and games. During Harry's coaching tenure, the St. Louis vs. Indiana games remain as some of the classic matches of my coaching career. And, win or lose, Harry was the same graceful friend, always having a kind word or two for our team and players.
Harry was one of a kind. A true gentleman, he was a man of integrity and strong character; and through his teaching and coaching, he instilled values and life lessons that helped positively shape the lives of so many over the years.
Harry was one of our finest and I consider it an honor to have been his friend.
Respectfully,
Jerry Yeagley
Justin Keenoy
February 9, 2012
To all the Keough's
What a pleasure it was to know Harry. I'll never forget how he took care of me on all the trips in the early 70's following my friends. I'll never forget his kindness. And the measure of a man (and his wife) shows up quite impressively in his children. God bless you all.
Slug
February 9, 2012
My Deepest Sympathy to Alma, Ty, Colleen, Peggy and entire Keough family. Your husband and father has been such a wonderful person to have known and followed throughout the years. It has certainly given me inspiration, knowledge and confidence about the game of soccer. I will always remember his kind nature. He is a huge part of why I feel truely blessed and fortunate enough to have grown up in this City of St. Louis and it's soccer community of people.
As highly as I think of your husband and father it's no wonder I feel the same for your family as a whole and that it is a pleasure to know you.
May God Bless You and Peace Be With You,
With Love,
Doug McCluskey
walt pleimann
February 9, 2012
Harry and Stan Musial were my all time heroes both growing up and through my adult life. As a young teenager in the 50's we played pick-up games at Carondelet Park almost every afternoon. Harry was there most of the time and though we all knew how great he was he made sure we knew he was just another player . He was always willing to show us proper technique and how to get better. I remember when he took several of us to Chicago to watch one of the great Mexican teams and how we stayed in a big dormitory with all the players. He took us to his team workouts, taught us how to play briska at the Spanish Society, played volleyball with us. Harry was just about as great a human being as one can become. I can't wait to get to Heaven to see him again.
Wally Pleimann
Vince jr Menendez
February 9, 2012
To Alma,Ty,ColleenPeggy
I justwant to express my heart felt condolences to the Keough family.On and,off the field our lesson from Harry were play with pride,wear uniform proudly, and treat your opponents with respect.MAY GOD IMBRASS YOU IN HIS ARM.TRUELY MISSED,BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.Chico
Richard Packer
February 9, 2012
Feb. 9, 2012
Dear Ty:
My sincere condolences to you and your family. Harry was my high school idol. A great man and ambassador for our sport, who inspired many of us "wannabees". Who can ever forget what Harry, Walter and their teammates did down in Bello Horizante on that unforgettable day in June 1950. Harry was the Captain of our 1956 Olympic Team in Melbourne; although the Yugoslavians "put it to us" ... we did have a succcessful pre Olympic tour of the Far East and Harry was our leader and inspiration. What he accomplished in St. Louis with Kutis, The University and the youth of the city will never be matched. His prowess on the soccer pitch was a surpassed only by his enthusiasm for our great sport, his loving character and his warmth as a human being. He will be missed by us all.
Dick Packer, Penn State University '56
Tom Turner
February 9, 2012
Churchill once said, "Never have so many owed so much to so few." While the contexts of soccer and war may be different, the reference point for USA in international competition begins in 1950. Heroes deserve to be honored and Harry Keough will always be remembered as an American hero.
Al and Elna Trost
February 9, 2012
To Alma, Ty, Colleen, and Peggy,
I want to thank you for giving us the opportunity to know and love Harry in so many ways. I truly have been blessed to know Harry, not only in that special player/coach relationship, but to know Harry as friend and role model. I loved Harry for his character, his honesty, his integrity, his dedication, but especially in his genuine love that he gave to everyone in his "soccer" family. He had such a positive impact, not only in my career as a player, but in dealing with life and life's relationships. He will always be in my heart. I will miss seeing and talking with him at the various functions. He was truly an inspiration to so many people.
Our prayers are with you.
Terese Borghi
February 9, 2012
I speak for my Dad, Frank Borghi and our entire family when I say we are remembering and honoring the great memory of Harry Keough, a truly kind and wonderful man today. I can't remember a time in my life that Mr. Keough was not a part of it. To this day, my Dad never fails to smile or light up with such pride at the mention of Harry or the talk of memories they shared together more than 60 years ago. They were more than teammates; they were lifelong friends with a mutual admiration and love for each other that has been an inspiration and a privilege to witness. Mr. Keough played soccer the same way he lived his life - with all of his heart and with pure joy.
It has been an honor to know Mr. Keough and I know that for the Borghi family, he will never, ever be forgotten.
In life, we find many men that are GREAT and some that are GOOD...
...But very few like Mr. Keough, that are both GREAT and GOOD.
Sincerely,
Terese Borghi
February 9, 2012
DEAR ALMA, TY, PEGGY, AND COLLEEN,
PLEASE ACCEPT MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES FOR HARRY. AS EVERYONE HAS SAID HE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON. . . ONE OF A KIND. I REMEMBER VERY WELL HOW HE HELPED MID AMERICA SOCCER CAMP BE AS SUCCESSFUL AS IT WAS. I WILL PRAY FOR HIS SOUL AND FOR ALL OF YOU.
TERRY LONG
Dan Tsubouchi
February 9, 2012
I would like to pass on my warmest wishes and thoughts to the Keough family, in particular Norma and Betty who I had the good fortune to know during my time at SLU in the 70's. I am sure you all have such tremendous memories and experiences of your life with Harry. And for that matter, so did the guys who had the chance to play for Harry at SLU. I didn't have that chance. Rather my memories are from an outsider's view at SLU in the 70's, and to see the impact Harry had on people. Harry did more than build championship teams, he build championship people. Its not the easiest job in the world to get young athletes to think of more than themselves as individuals, but he did that and by doing that, I am sure he helped these young athletes for the rest of their lives. Imagine the world if everyone could positively impact people the way Harry did! I know it isn't easy when people pass away, but i have to believe you have many smiles for what he did during his life.
Dan Tsubouchi
Calgary, Alberta
Bob Shay
February 9, 2012
To the Keough family. I am very sorry for Harry's passing. It was my pleasure to have known Harry but not as well as others. We even played together for a couple years on an indoor co-ed league. Harry was playing against 19 and 20 year olds and baffled them with his skills and agility. They really didn't know what to make of it. I last spoke with Harry at a soccer hall of fame induction ceremony and he was kind enough to autograph my program, though he didn't know why I wanted his autograph! He was a great guy and a soccer legend! My prayers are with your family.
Tony Pelizzaro
February 9, 2012
To a man that played such a special part in my (and my family's) life. What a blessing and privilege to have known such a wonderful person. Many fond memories, especially the friendship between Harry and my Dad, will always be cherished. Growing up with the "SLU family" was such an awesome experience....thank you Harry. An idol, mentor and wonderful person. You will be missed by many.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. May God bless and comfort you during this time of loss.
David & Paul Wilson
February 9, 2012
To Alma, Colleen, Peggy, Ty, and the entire Keough family...Our deepest condolences to your family...Harry was THE St. Louis soccer legend and will NEVER be forgotten..!!
David and Paul Wilson.
Tom Meyer
February 9, 2012
Mr. Keough,
Thank you and God Bless You.
LIke so many kids of my era ... I owe my college education to you. You made it possible for me to get a scholarship by your kind recommendation and giant reputation.
We were the beneficiaries of your greatness and your generosity.
Larry Donovan
February 9, 2012
Without a doubt, the best coach I have ever refereed for. Never a bad word was spoken by this man. He was and always will be the the standard by which coaches are measured. We have lost a true gentleman and a great friend. He is now coaching God's team.
February 9, 2012
Harry, thanks for giving me the opportunity to have known you and to have played for you. With sincere condolences to Alma, Ty, Colleen, Peggy, Norma, Betty, and the grandkids...
Jimmy Draude
SLU'68-'72
February 9, 2012
DEAR ANITA AND TY.I KNEW HARRY WHEN WE WERE YOUNG KIDS FROM CARONDOLET SUNDAY MORNING ATHLETIC CLUB AND HE WAS WITH THE SPANISH SOCIETY .WE USED TO PLAY PICK UP GAMES AT THE PARK AND THEN WE WOULD PLAY ON SUNDAYS.AT VARIOUS PLACES.I WAS NOT GOOD BUT ENJOYED PLAYING.I PLAYED AGAINST COLUMBO, BORGIE AND PARENTIE WHEN THEY WERE WITH THE HILL GANG.I PLAYED WITH VAL PELIZZARO AND RICH MEISMAN AT ST.MARYS HIGH SCHOOL . MY SISTER DOLORES USED TO PAL AROUND WITH YOU.HE WAS A ONE OF A KIND AND ALWAYS TREATED ME AS HE TREATED EVERYONE.I`LL KEEP HIM IN MY PRAYERS .BOB JULIUS
Jane Cookemboo
February 9, 2012
I am sure Harry and Andy are playing soccer in heaven, we always loved his visits to the Charless home to see Andy and listen to them talk of the old days. Great man.......
Mark Flynn
February 9, 2012
To the Keoughs:
Harry will be remembered for his exploits as a player, coach, ambassador, father, mentor but what I remember most is the great gentleman that he was and how he exhibited that in all facets of his life.
Karen Guelker
February 9, 2012
Thinking about you all and so sorry!
John & Cindy Roeslein
February 9, 2012
Harry's memory and history will be with me forever. He played a special part in my life while at SLU and I am forever grateful for the opportunity he gave me at SLU. He was and still is an amazing person and part of my life in soccer. My prayers are for Alma, Ty, Colleen and Peggy - to give you strength. I know Harry is going to a good place. His memories will keep him alive in all of us.
Terry Hanson
February 9, 2012
When I was a young college soccer coach at St. Benedict's (now Benedictine) College in Kansas I was very green and called on Harry for some advice.He responded and we stayed in loose touch for many years. What a great man. May he rest in peace.
February 9, 2012
An icon. A man who molded many lives through his coaching, mentoring, and friendship. Thank you Harry for sharing your life with us. Our condolences to Alma, Ty, Colleen, and Peggy.
Don and Karen Huber
February 9, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Keough family.
Tom and Julie Twellman and family
Mary McClain
February 9, 2012
Alma, Ivan and I really enjoyed the times we spent with you and Harry in Guadalajara. Mary McClain
February 9, 2012
I used to watch Mr. Keough's teams from SLU when they played their games in Fairgrounds Park. I met Harry Keough once. He was walking with his wife in Carondelet Park one Sunday afternoon. We were at a band concert. I went up to him, he didn't know me of course, and introduced myself and a few of my nephews,who were good soccer players. We talked for a good 15 minutes about this and that, until his wife, seeing this could go on forever, called his name, and he politely excused himself, shook all our hands and continued with his walk. Just a nice man. He will be missed. Tom Anselm, Florissant, MO
February 9, 2012
Sorry to hear of Harry's passing. He was a great guy, always fun to be around, and a good postal supervisor. He will be missed by many.
Walt Gemmer (worked with Harry at the P.O.)
Jack & Peggy Huckel
February 9, 2012
The soccer world has lost on of it's greatest ambassadors. As a player, coach, and as simply one of the individuals with whom we share our times, Harry Keough is an paragon. He will live long in the hearts of those who knew him and forever in the annals of soccer history.
Our sincerest condolences to all the Keoughs.
Bob Delaney
February 9, 2012
I first saw Harry Keough's work as a freshman at Saint Louis University in the fall of 1982--Harry's last season as Billikens coach. I got to meet him in the mid-1980s at a SLU soccer function and saw him many times over the years. In the late 1980s, while I was a high school soccer referee, Harry and I worked a match together. In recent years, as I read more on the history of soccer in St. Louis, I learned more about Harry's playing and coaching days and what a positive impact he had on and off the pitch. I feel most fortunate to get to know--at least in a slight way--such a man as Harry Keough. His enthusiasm for soccer, his character and his warmth will long be appreciated by those he touched over the years. I will miss Harry as a soccer person of the first rank, and I will miss Harry as a person of the first rank. Rest in peace, Harry, and thank you for a life well lived.
Frantz Innocent
February 9, 2012
Ty
My condolence to you and your family. I am a former player at UConn in 70's. Competed against you once. Met your dad at the NSCAA convention. A good man. A great lost to our soccer community.
BEST
Sam & Mary Beth Bick
February 9, 2012
Harry Keough's achievements as a player, coach and soccer ambassador put St. Louis and the U.S. on the global soccer map and inspired future generations of St. Louis soccer players and coaches to succeed at high levels of the sport. The manner in which he achieved this is second to none. Thank you, Harry!
My condolences to Ty and the rest of the Keough family.
Terri LoRusso
February 9, 2012
Hard to believe that Harry will no longer show up ... As Royalty... at the annual Turkey Bowl on the Hill on Thanksgiving morning. God bless Harry and all who knew and loved him! Soccer will never be the same in Saint Louis.
David Fernandez
February 9, 2012
What a great man. It was a pleasure to have played for Harry simply because you had the opportunity to hear him speak on a daily basis. He was genuine! There will never be another like him. My Condolences to the family.
John Hayes
February 9, 2012
There will only be one Harry Keough:
I had the Honor to play for Harry at SLU for 4 years and I'm a better person today for that experience. He was much more than a coach and made everyone around him a better person. He was a Class act on and off the field and a mentor to many of us. May he rest in peace and I will see him again down the road and we will share our favorite drink again - a Pepsi.
Brian Quinn
February 9, 2012
Lovely man. Generous with his time and...... he enjoyed being involved with players, coaches and anyone who had the same enthusiasm he had for the game. He always had a reverence about him that exuded class no matter which situation he was in.
Reminded me of the great Sir Bobby Charlton ---- Harry was a fantastic ambassador for the game in our country.
Tim Flynn
February 8, 2012
February 8, 2012
I recall many a Sunday afternoon spent at a park with my father, my Uncle Ed, and my brothers, watching Kutis play. And to have had the opportunity to play for Harry at St. Louis University years later was another chance to learn. We improved our game playing for Harry, but more importantly, we learned how to play and how to conduct ourselves, as representatives of our parishes, our university, our city, and as young men. We had a wonderful example in our coach. I am privileged to have met, played for, and known him. God blessed us with someone special. Thanks for everything Harry.
Red Dog
February 8, 2012
Growing up on the Southside during the late 50's and early 60's, we had two heroes – Stan Musial and Harry Keough – both amazing athletes and fierce competitors on the field but kind gentlemen off of it.
Beyond my wildest dreams, I was lucky to play for Harry at SLU from 70 -73. The 3 NCAA titles captured during our time together pale in comparison to the life lessons that Harry taught me and my teammates.
Harry, we appreciate your efforts in enriching our lives as we traveled around the world together. Whether we were in Seattle or Philadelphia, Amsterdam or Mexico City, Rio or Buenos Aires, San Fran or Miami you always took the time to schedule local tours to provide us with unforgettable experiences away from the soccer field.
We will always be proud to say - “I played soccer at Saint Louis University when a great man - Harry Keough - was our coach.”
We miss you already, but we will never forget you. Harry, your legacy lives on.
Alma, Betty, Norma, Ty, Colleen and Peggy – please accept my most sincere condolences and thank you for sharing Harry with us.
Jim Bokern
February 8, 2012
To Alma, Ty, Colleen, and Peggy,
I want to thank you for giving us the opportunity to know and love Harry in so many ways. I truly have been blessed to know Harry, not only in that special player/coach relationship, but to know Harry as friend and role model. I loved Harry for his character, his honesty, his integrity, his dedication, but especially in his genuine love that he gave to everyone in his "soccer" family. He had such a positive impact, not only in my career as a player, but in dealing with life and life's relationships. He will always be in my heart. I will miss seeing and talking with him at the various functions. He was truly an inspiration to so many people.
Our prayers are with you.
Al and Elna Trost
Tom Rich
February 8, 2012
It was my good fortune, as a teenager, to admire Harry and later to play for and to play along-side him. Harry personified "class", on and off the pitch and shared his talent and experiences.
My prayers and best wishes go to his family. Love all around!
Jerry Murphy
February 8, 2012
As a young boy I recall my father taking me to see Kutis and Harry play at Fairgrounds #1 and #2 and Public Schools Stadium. In college, I played against Harry and his great teams at SLU. The USSF and all of soccer in this country can see a bright future standing on the shoulders of such a giant. Rest in peace Harry.
Austin Gomez
February 8, 2012
Harry, the great soccer story-teller, Keough will be surely missed by all his fellow St. Louisians as well as by all the U.S. nation! USSF Soccer Ambassador, Harry, was a remarkably kind, very generous, closely attentive, and sincerely humble person, who was truly a remarkable Soccer Icon and royal Legend for all who knew him, making everyone happier/better off after meeting him! Like Will Rogers, Harry never met a person he did not like (even Charlie 'gloves" Colombo) and along with his valuable assistance and wise guidance to all who had asked! An amazing player for the Kutis soccer team of the '50s, a legendary coach at SLU (5-times NCAA Champion), and a fervently devout family man (with dear wife Alma and children: Tyrone, Colleen, Peggy). Now, Harry will be reunited with his 1950 WCup teammates in Heaven, forever, along with those who will eventually join him! Farewell, to a 'Man for All Seasons' -- Farewell!
Len Oliver
February 8, 2012
harry Keough was a giant in our game. Everyone knows of his exploits in Belo Horizonte in 1950 against England, but he went on to distinguished carrer as a player, coach, and spokesman for our game. I had the privilege of playing against Harry's Kutis squad in 1959 in St. Louis, and then coming to know him better through the National Soccer Hall of Fame. He was always polite, a gentleman, knowledgable in our sport, full of humor, and always a delight to have a conversation with. Harry, you will be missed.
Len Oliver
Washington, DC
National Soccer Hall of Fame
Laina deLima Rosales
February 8, 2012
I have such fond memories of Harry and his family during my childhood when my Dad coached with him at SLU. His home was like our second home, and he always made us feel like part of his family. I remember those Sunday dinners always ended with ice cream! Harry was the most amazing storyteller I have ever known, and his smile just lit up the room. I am so grateful for all that Harry did for my Dad both personally and professionally many years ago and throughout their long friendship, or should I say Brotherhood.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. May God bless you all with peace and comfort at this time of both sorrow and joy.
Austin Gomez
February 8, 2012
Harry, 'the fantastic storyteller,' Keough: a truly humble Icon and Legend for not only the city of St. Louis but also for the entire USA, as a player for 'Kutis soccer team' - coach for 'SLU's 5-time NCAA Champions' - and most importantly, a devout family man (with wife Alma and children: Tyrone, Colleen, and Peggy) along with thousands, thousands of sincerely worshipping/admiring Friends. Like Will Rogers, Harry never met a person that he did not like (even Charlie 'gloves' Columbo) and also had either an anecdote to relate or assistance to give! What a GREAT Person: truly 'A Man for all Seasons' and we will all miss him dearly -- now, Harry will be reunited with his 1950 WCup teammates once again, in Heaven!
Daniel Kustura
February 8, 2012
An absolute gift to have played for Harry. Will always remember he as a gentle man. Loved the stories on our trips with his ever present can of Pepsi. Loved his passion for winning, even if it was just against a bunch of kids on cold rainy fall evenings at Forest Park. Mrs. Keough, Ty, Colleen and Peggy, God speed to you all.
February 8, 2012
Harry was:
Cool coming out of the backfield
Cool on the sidelines which helped his teams play.
A cool guy to talk to.
Cool in his humility.
The coaching community needs more cool.
~Ed Huneke~
Edwardsville
Paul Dueker
February 8, 2012
I'd like to share "my Harry story" with you all. And everyone who ever knew Harry Keough has their own "Harry story" to be sure - such was the power of his persona.
So here is my "Harry story" and to this day it's still crystal clear---
Back in the mid-eighties I lived on Jamieson Ave. in south St. Louis in a small apartment. It was not too far from Harry and Alma's house actually.
As was customary at the time I would constantly be having buddies over to watch VHS tapes of recent matches from Europe or South America. Matches that I had recorded off the big, old and ugly satellite dish, usually from the previous weekend. Mind you this was the only way to see games at the time as ESPN's coverage was scant and Fox Soccer Channel or GOL TV were not even a figment of someone's imagination yet.
Well this particular night I just so happened to be hosting a couple English blokes who were attending Washington University here in St. Louis working on their Phd's. (somehow the word got out that I had the cure for the real fan's FUTBOL FIX).
So Chris from Liverpool ( a Toffee ), Glenn from London ( a Hammer) and I were sitting on the couch, most likely watching a recent English First Division match on the telly, when there is a knock on the door.
I open the door and it's Harry returning a couple of my videos. Chris and Glen were rather fixated on the action on the telly and were a bit put off when I paused the VCR to introduce them to my "visitor".
Once they all exchanged handshakes I quipped - "And Harry played on the 1950 team that beat...."
Before I had even finished the sentence they bolted up off that couch like the Queen herself had just entered the room! They knew how my sentence was going to finish and were just utterly and completely flabbergasted that this man was in their presence. Even though they did not recognize his name initially during the introductions they sure as hell knew what he had accomplished 35 years previous against their beloved Three Lions (something that 99.999% of Americans at that time would not have known, I might add).
Of course Harry graciously granted their requests for autographs and I got to sit there on that couch and listen to Harry go into the finest detail answering those two Englishmen's queries about Belo Horizante 1950.
So right before he excused himself for the evening Harry tells the little story about his encounter with the lady from Liverpool on a ferry while crossing the English Channel.
Harry, trying to impress the lady from Liverpool on his command of the King's English, quips-
"So you are a Liverpudlian?"
"No" she replies
"I'm an EVERTONIAN!"
This of course brought a smile to Chris - The Everton supporter's - face as big as the Gateway Arch.
WHAT A MAN! PURE CLASS.
Craig Corbett
February 8, 2012
To Harry Keough,
I remember hearing your name as a kid growing up within Scott Gallagher and you certainly defined the words soccer royalty. I'll always remember our random meeting at Shaw Park in Clayton as you juggled the ball with your grandkids watching OLOL. I remember being very nervous to introduce myself and you were a true gentleman and inspiration for our great game. My prayers are with you and your entire family.
Jesse Ochoa
February 8, 2012
Harry was a wonderful person who I have known for over 30 years and have had the pleasure to play soccer with and against during those years. He was an amazing soccer player who will be greatly missed.
Richard Apodaca
February 8, 2012
One word says it all: Legendary...as a player, coach and human being. My condolences to the Keough Family, and thank you for sharing his time with all of us that will be forever grateful, to have known Harry.
Nick Talarico Jr.
February 8, 2012
I knew Harry through my wife Betty and the yearly St Philip Neri class reunions. For an athlete of his stature he was a very humble man. St Louis has lost an icon. Condolences to the Keough family.
February 8, 2012
To Harry Keough,
One of the truly great soccer icons of our time. It was a pleasure to have known you and played for you. You will be missed!
Condolences and prayers for the Keough family.
Vince Drake, Maryland Heights, Missouri
Christine Kehoe-Tenney
February 8, 2012
Condolences from one Kehoe family to another Keough family.
My father, Bob Kehoe, has not had a dry eye since he heard.
He speaks very highly of Harry.
Not only of his talents, but of the man.
The Bob Kehoe Family.
Greg & Theresa Makowski
February 8, 2012
Harry was truly an inspiration for all St. Louis Soccer Players. His impact on our sport was profound to say the least. Harry was always carried himself with great class. Win or lose Harry always showed respect to his competitors. We'll miss you Harry.
February 8, 2012
Harry, we pray for you and yours. You will be missed in our hearts, on the field and off. D Darrell Smith
Pete Collico
February 8, 2012
One of the most inspiring people to play for and to know.
Joe
February 8, 2012
Harry Keough,
A man viewed as a very humble and giving soccer icon, will be greatly missed as he has left many many great memories with those that he touched!
RIP.....
Thoughts and prayers to the entire Keough Family!!
Fred Schmalz
February 8, 2012
From the time I was a kid in St.Louis he was a hero as a player and later as a coaching colleague and friend. A man who was respected and admired by all who came in contact with him. Everyone involved in soccer in the US will miss this icon of the Game. My condolences and prayers are with the Keough family.
Bob Matteson
February 8, 2012
My condolences to the Keough family. To me, Harry was an extraordinary human being. Not just by his soccer accomplishments, but more so by the way he lived his life, always conducting himself with class on and off the field. He was a great example to everyone who played for him.
Thank you Harry, it was truly my honor and privilege to know you.
Pat Maloney
February 8, 2012
To Ty and the Keough Family,
What a wonderful man was Harry Keough! I learned a lot about soccer from Harry the coach, and I learned a lot about life from Harry, the man. Thanks for letting me be a part of your life, Harry, and as the Irish would say, "May God hold you in the hollow of his hand!"
Pat "Lungs" Maloney, SLU '70
Dan Harris
February 8, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Keough family on the passing of a great gentleman, Harry Keough. As an opposing coach while at the U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee I learned much from Harry. Mostly I learned how to be gracious and how to treat both the game and people with respect. No matter what the result of the match, Harry always had a kind word of praise for me and my team. I will never forget that , especially coming from one of America's greatest soccer legends. I was honored to compete against him and proud to call him a friend. We have lost one of the great men in soccer and one of the great men in our country. The world is a sadder place today.
Robert Kruckemeyer
February 8, 2012
To Ty and Family,
Please accept my condolences. It was certainly my privilege to know and play for Harry. He was very kind to me. Even though I was at the bottom of the depth chart he always made time to coach me as if I was one of the star players. After 33 years I can still remember exactly what he said to me during private conversations. I really looked up to him. He was an incredible mentor and role model and all of us are much better people for having known him.
Dan Donigan
February 8, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Harry and his family, friends and loved ones. It was such an honor and privilege to have followed his legacy at Saint Louis University! Harry is a legend and absolute first class person forever to us all!
Steve Pecher
February 8, 2012
I Was not one of the fortunate players to play for Harry but when I saw him he would treat me as if I did. I look forward to the day when I will be able to have that opportunity.
God Bless Harry.
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