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Frosty Westering
Frosty Westering
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Frosty Westering Obituary
Yet he was just as well known for his positive teachings and his success as a motivational speaker and author.
The grandfatherly former football coach at Pacific Lutheran died on Friday at 85, the school said. He had been in failing health in recent years and spent his final two months in hospice care.
"As we rejoice in dad's life, we say that God is good," his son, Scott, who is now the football coach at PLU, said in a statement from the school. "We know the end story here, that Frosty is with his Savior in heaven, and we are at peace with this."
In 32 seasons at the NAIA and NCAA Division III school, Westering won four titles and finished as a national runner-up four other times. He won more than 78 percent of his games at PLU, going 261-70-5 at the private school. Before coming to PLU, Westering coached at Parsons College in Iowa and Lea College in Minnesota.
Westering retired in 2003 with 305 total victories and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005. He led the Lutes to NAIA national titles in 1980, 1987 and 1993, then in the school's second year after making the jump to Division III, led PLU to the 1999 national title. The Lutes became the first team to win five road games to win the title.
His record at the small school about an hour south of Seattle was staggering. He never had a losing record in any of his 32 seasons and had 19 total playoff appearances. Three times he was a national coach of the year.
But that was just one part of Westering. He was a professor and successful author, transferring his beliefs about coaching into life skills. Westering wrote two books — "Make The Big Time Where You Are" and "The Strange Secret of the Big Time: What Makes Life Great" — and regularly spoke to groups of all ages. Westering also started a mentorship program among PLU football players with local elementary students where they spend about 2,000 hours annually at schools working with kids.
Westering is survived by his wife, Donna, five children and 13 grandchildren.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
84 Entries
Coach Tenney and his "little packers"
David Tenney
April 3, 2014
Frosty gave me a wonderful opportunity to share with his team back in 1990. His influence on my coaching and way of handling and motivating people lasts to this day. His book "Make the big time where you are" still has an impact on me today. I mourn his passing and rejoice that he's with our Savior.
Jones
September 2, 2013
Scott, You and your family are in my heart and prayers. Having only met Frosty once and you giving me a copy of each of his books, that he signed to me, is precious. He was truly a wonderful man.
Clyde Kramer
May 13, 2013
My sympathy to the Westering family. Most people don't realize what a successful basketball coach Frosty was. I played for him at Elkader High School (52-56) where we went 46-5 the last two years. Coach was a great influence on my life as a high school coach all the way to my position as a college president. Rest in peace.
How you can show support
May 6, 2013
WHAT A GREAT INSTRUCTOR!
Jack Richards
May 2, 2013
Just wanted Donna and all of the Westering Clan to know that amid our sorrow at April 14 worship services, we did lift up a giant ATTAWAY! 1st...in thankfulness to God for sending Frosty...2nd...for Frosty's willingness to live out His playbook so faithfully...and 3rd...for the Westering Family for sharing him with all of us so generously! (Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and Preschool...and Men's Ministry/Everett, WA
Jay Milsten
April 27, 2013
We have lost and Heaven has gained a great man of love and Character. You do not have to look very far in our area to see how Frosty raised his family and changed lives here in the Northwest. I have had the privilege to see Frosty speak many times always leaving inspired. To the family and extended family of players and friends....may his love for God, family and friends remain with you til we meet Frosty again with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Bob & Ann McNew
April 27, 2013
Thanks to all the Westering family for the many memories over the years, from Fairfield, Iowa to Albert Lea, MN. and on to PLU. Frosty had such an impact on our lives, which has, also, reached our kids...his faith, love of life, smile, his two books, just being him. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. We love you, Donna...Holly, Susie, Bred, Scott, Stacy. God's peace be with you!
Mike Safford
April 23, 2013
Frosty, you helped me grow from a teenager that didn't know, to a man over the span of four years. Your principles have been the rock in my work ethic, my relationships, and my family. I am forever grateful for you and your staff taking the chance on a young kid from Puyallup. Attaway Frosty - that you for all you did for me and I hope you are enjoying coaching Nellie!!!
April 23, 2013
I will always remember his smile and enthusiasm and good nature. My condolences to the family. May God comfort you.
April 22, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of coaches passing, yet so blessed to have had him in my life. In the spring of 1970 he came to Nevada School to be the main speaker at our athletic banquet. As soon as I heard him I knew I wanted to play for him. He gave us all a chance to reach our full potential, not just as football players, but as men. I am still using Frosty's lessons in class and on the field. I viewed the man as a second father, I think most of his players did the same. He was such a kind competitor, we had to do things the right way for the right reasons. He made me a better person than I even thought possible. Take great comfort in knowing that God allowed such an influence in our lives. Thanks Frosty for all the lessons and may God grant you and your family peace. EMAL
Brad Wilkening 70-71
Bill Sosnowski
April 22, 2013
Thank You Westering Family for sharing Frosty with us at Lea College. It is an Honor and a Privilege to be mentored by Frosty. You remain in our thoughts and prayers. All Our Love. Bill, Cheryl Sosnowski
Lea College 1971 #74
Paul Markowski
April 22, 2013
Frosty gave me a chance to continue playing football at Lea College. Frosty taught us life skills and values that have pushed us to heights we may have thought unattainable. You left your mark on so many, you will be missed. Thanks Coach EMAL
April 22, 2013
Frosty and all the Westerings Thanks for the opportunity to play at the next level. As a charter memeber of Lea College's first class, it was quite the adventure.
I take a morning walk everyday, it brings back old memories.RIP Frosty and Thanks again.
Greg & Bev Francis Lea College 66
Lea College Coaches
Jerry Staton
April 22, 2013
Keith Templeton
April 21, 2013
Our thoghts and prayers are with the family. Thanks for all you did for the Tacoma community and raising a wonderful family
M. Clinton
April 21, 2013
As a freshman on the player-hire committee for a new football coach we interviewed Frosty. That night I went back to Ivy, had a dream and woke up with a purpose. Frosty started strong and the longer we played the stronger we became.
LORIN GINTHER
April 21, 2013
FROSTY SPOKE AT OUR CHURCH BANQUET-MT VIEW LUTHERAN CHURCH- BACK IN THE 70S OR 80S AND DID HIS SPOON HANGING FROM YOUR NOSE TRICK. HE HAD EVERYONE DOING IT. WHAT A RIOT! HIS JESUS CENTERED MESSAGE WAS CLEAR. WHAT A GREAT MAN!
Isaac Williams
April 21, 2013
Thanks for everything coach. We continue His work. Rest now.
Brian Troost
April 21, 2013
My condolences to all of the Westering family. I cannot explain in words the impact Frosty had in my life. What an honor to have been coached and mentored by such a great man. It amazes me how I see his impact almost daily in not only my life, but in others I work, coach and live with. God worked in mighty ways through him, and his legacy will endure many years into the future.
Ash Steffy
April 21, 2013
God Bless you, Coach and your Family !! EMAL !!!
Ash Steffy
April 21, 2013
Dear Coach,
thank you for ALL that you have done and thank you for being there for me and so many others !!! Thatta WAY !!
Ash Steffy # 22
Gary Rowland (Stemmer)
April 21, 2013
I met Frosty as a 5th grade football player at Central Community Schools, Elkader, IA and again when he arrived in Seattle for the PLU coaching position. I well always know that he remembered me no matter time passing, I wish the family the best, he is an inspiration to learn and live by.
Barbara Hennessy Lourdes
April 20, 2013
Scott, I'm so sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort be with you and your family during your time of grief. My prayers go out to you and your family.I remember growing up in Parkland and meeting Frosty in Junior High School. Cannot remember anyone saying anything bad about Frosty. RIP. The world needs more men like him.
Steve Calhoun
April 19, 2013
Frosty was a great influence to so many, I feel blessed to have been a freshman bomber, a student in his bowling class, and a student trainer working with the football team. He will be missed, but his mentoring will continue touch many lives.
Steve Saunders
April 19, 2013
Enjoyed following Frosty's career and successes, both at Lea College and at PLU. Every time a story appeared about Frosty it served as a reminder of how to live life in a positive, caring way and still be successful! He is a great role model for all!
EMAL!!
Larry Green
April 19, 2013
Donna and Frosty changed my life forever, Jesus called me to follow Him through the PLU Football program and they both taught me to be a servant warrior! He would tell me to take what I have taught you and then make it a life style! Thank you coach, Thank you Donna We love you, #63 Lar
Donald Samuelson
April 18, 2013
Coach was one of the 3 most important people in my life. I played for him at Fairfield High School in the late 50's. He went on to become a customer of mine later while at Parsons college. I sold him a new Ford Station Wagon at 1:00 in the morning in 1963 because he was watching football tapes until then! God grant him peace. Coach was a great messenger for Him!
The 1959 Fairfield High School Team with Coach Westering and staff.
Jerry Chezum
April 18, 2013
I had the privilege of being on Coach Westering Last High School Team he coach at that level in FairfieLd, Ia High School.
He taught me many values that I still practice today and past along to our Children. He will be dearly missed, but those values he instilled in young people will go on for generations.
Paul Nimmo
April 17, 2013
Like ripples in a pond, Frosty touched so many lives both directly and indirectly. We celebrate his passing to be with his Lord and Saviour.
margaret and Dave
April 17, 2013
I'm pretty sure Frosty lived a very fullfilling wonderful life, as a husband,father,grandfather,coach,christian man....Good life and now even better with our Savior Jesus Christ! ;)
Tamara Martin
April 17, 2013
I have only seen Frosty once on campus at PLU, but his humor and hearing more about him was an inspiration. May God Bless and be with the Westering Family.
Kay Culpepper
April 16, 2013
I never met Frosty, but am so inspired by his example for all of us as he lived (as stated by a friend) by taking the higher road through the journey of life.
Kevin Morrow
April 16, 2013
I had the honor of knowing Frosty for many years. He always had a kind word and a smile. One minutes with Frosty, and you walked away feeling better about yourself. He was truly a man of God, and he was not shy when it came to sharing his Faith. He will be missed.
Steve Crew
April 16, 2013
RIP, Coach! My father coached with Frosty in Fairfield IA and had a big influence on his 37 year coaching career. These types of coaches don't come along often. The family should be so proud of his legacy.
George Hilbish
April 16, 2013
The Marines and Corpsmen of the Pierce County Detachment #504 Marine Corps League, Share in Your Loss. A Job Well Done Coach, Semper Fi Marine! Rest In Peace.
aboard SV Love Song, currently in Thailand
Kathleen Simis
April 16, 2013
What a privilege to have the pleasure of being a part PLU football through camp and games, and to be on the receiving end of an Attaway. Thanks, Frosty, and all the Westering family, for who you are and what you represent. God Bless your family as you continue bless others. Sincerely, Kathy (Cray) Simis and family
Brian Perron
April 16, 2013
Prayers, condolences and love to the Westering family and EMALs everywhere. This man changed my life. Thank you Frosty!
April 16, 2013
I had the pleasure of being involved at PLU as a cheerleader back in 1977. Frosty's wonderful spirit and amazing ability to inspire young adults was contagious. I vividly remember being included in a few Sunday dinners at his family home with his wife and kids. Those "attaway" cheers were his trademark. What a life well lived!
Peace.
Julie Hageman Kaloper 75-80
Carleigh Hill
April 16, 2013
I wasn't even a Lute (I was a Linfield Wildcat) but Frosty's "Atta-ways" will always bring a smile to my face - thanks for the wonderful legacy.
Tom Howden
April 15, 2013
Condolences to Frosty's many Friends and Family. I was lucky to be able to sit in on a class Frosty taught once at Washington High about Positive Mental Attitude.. He forever changed my life.. Frosty will never be forgotten.
david larson
April 15, 2013
Hi Frosty . You came to P.l.u. after i left but you made every man a lute . You reminded me that evey day is a day of choices . Choices that can be a positive endearing motivation to all around us . I felt happier when i made a good choice . You made my life complete because i made others smile . Thanks for the memories and when i awake all i will have to do is think of you and all the good choices ahead David Larson class of 1970
Craig Dahl
April 15, 2013
Frosty was such a great inspiration to me-changed my whole outlook on life for the better. I carried many of his lessons into my coaching career. He left a lasting legacy for me and many others. THANKS Frosty! Craig Dahl
Jerry Jensen
April 15, 2013
Coach Westering was a great person, coach and a great mentor for young men in sports. We were blessed to have him at a
Rotary club banquet in 1993 at Everett. What a great speaker and kept your attention at all times.
Our prayer and toughts are with the family of Frosty. God bless his soul.
Daniel Bond
April 14, 2013
A great man,coach, and a long time freind.I knew him as a summer recreation coach in Missouri Valley,Ia.He was one of our home town boys that turned out to be the most remembered, most respected in the sports world.He will never be forgotten.
Larry Swails
April 14, 2013
I was with the Fairfield, IA high school Trojans 1956-1960 an dhe was our coach. A builder of character and a leader whose example a young person could follow. You had a great influence in my life Coach. I will miss just knowing you are here someplace. Rest in peace.
John Elliott
April 14, 2013
While at Lea, I never heard a harsh word spoken about Frosty. He was well thought off and will be greatly missed by many. A big but gentle giant who treated everyone with respect.
John Elliott
April 14, 2013
While at Lea, I never heard a harsh word spoken about Frosty. He was well thought off and will be greatly missed by many. A big but gentle giant who treated everyone with respect. 1968-1972
April 14, 2013
Genius in his field of coaching. You will be missed . . . good night, sweet prince. bless U ~ Offering my deepest condolences
- Edwin Gilven, Tacoma, Washington
Mike Burton
April 14, 2013
Frosty was a class person and coach. He was a pleasure to officiate a game for. The Northwest College Officials thank him for his efforts in coaching and education. Mike Burton, Commissioner NIFOA
April 14, 2013
I was at Lea College when i met MR. Westerling. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. Frosty is someone who you knew by just watching him. I ran on the first track team at a Lea. I was in Christian athletic classeswith him. He is looking to see all of us again some day. He wiil be missed by all who had an contact with him. Not many men like Frosty left here on earth.
Bankston
April 14, 2013
May the God of all comfort be with you.
April 14, 2013
My sincere condolences tothe family. God cares and will comfort you.1 Pe. 5;7
April 14, 2013
Offering my deepest condolences during this difficult time, I'm so very sorry for your loss, death is something we are never prepared for, but please find comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be no more.
Jerry Jensen
April 14, 2013
Coach Westering was a great person and I remember his great words of wisdom he gave the athele's at the Rotary Club in Everett in 1993. I was amazed how much he said in a short period. My son commented on the great speech. I introduced myself and he made me feel like he knew me for years. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family on a great loss. God Bless your family.
Tim Kleinpaste
April 14, 2013
Brad,
The last time I saw you was when I was in college at Moorhead State,1970something. I happened to be leaving my parked car to head back to the dorm when PLU was playing against MSU Dragons. I was walking along the south side of Nemzick Field when I saw you run a play that won the game for PLU. I can now easily imagine the joy your father felt at that moment. I am certain there were many other moments,too. I think, as a father, I know my life is finite, and I often wonder what impact, what legacy I will leave on this world. Then I see my children, and my children's children, and imagine the generations beyond that, and take comfort and joy in the unfounded knowledge that the kids are all right. I am confident your father felt the same way.
April 14, 2013
May you find comfort in the Hearer of prayer at this time. Psalm 65:2
Anthony Johnson
April 14, 2013
To my dear friend Brad my heart goes out to you and your family there are no words I can say to help heal your heavy heart at this time but you can take confort in knowing that the Lord is good and your dad is at peace and he has touched so many people that his legacy will live on forever.
Lawrence, Sandra, Ryan, Rachel,Brody, Breanne,Brent, Kayley, and Cammie The Bullock Family
April 14, 2013
Scott, and Westering Family,
May our Lord,give you comfort and Strength in this time of loss. What a wonderful, Positive; PLU Ph.D, Father,Husband,Grandfather,Mentor, Marine, Coach,Loving, Successful Leader,Friend,and Good Faithful Servant of Jesus Christ, Frosty is to all of us.We will be sad now, but joy will come the morning Be assured we pray until it arrives
We have been truly blessed and touched by Frosty Westering's life, and his Strong Finish.
In Christ Love
THE BULLOCK Family
Barbara Bussey
April 13, 2013
Dear Brad, I was so sorry to hear about your Dad. He was a very special man and you were blessed to have him. You are in my prayers. Take care of yourself. I'm still in AZ so won't be able to come to the service. Barb Bussey
Milt & Joanne
April 13, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
April 13, 2013
Coach was an asset for any young man that was privileged to play for him. He served his country and gave greatly of himself to so many, in all respects a teacher. My condolances to his family. Gary P.
Duane and Jan Hardesty
April 13, 2013
Frosty was a very special person, coach and leader, but the most significant part of Frosty's life and career was his personal walk with our Lord and Savior; Jesus Christ. Knowing Frosty was a special privilege Jan I will always cherish. May the Lord's peace be with you all during this time of Frosty's Home Going. He is HOME FREE!
April 13, 2013
Frosty Westering Family,
May God condolence to heal your heart and may you all experence the strength of his arms.God keeps a record of every tears drop; He is also a God of emotion so he has felt your pain. God loves you and will be your comforter today and into the days ahead.
DB NJ
hendon
April 13, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort be with you and your family during your time of grief. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Trish Tougas
April 13, 2013
Prayers and thoughts are with your entire family. So blessed to know such an honorable man and his family!
Christa H
April 13, 2013
It was a true blessing to be part of the life of Frosty! You will be greatly missed by many!! Frosty, you have now made it to the big time!! My thoughts and prayers are with the Westering family during this difficult time! May The Lord keep his loving arms around you all!!
Lee Christiansen
April 13, 2013
In 1950 I played baseball for Harlan, IA and we played Missouri Valley,IA and Frosty was their coach. I watched and listened to him coach the other team and his words and actions were copied and used in my subsequent 35 years of coaching youth baseball--he was one terrific person! Recall that from 63 years ago---Great to follow him at PSU----against Linfield--great games!! Take care!
the Jankers
April 13, 2013
Dear Westering family,
We are thinking of you and praying for you during this time of loss.
Joan Behm Stebly
April 13, 2013
Donna Belle, I'm so sorry for your loss. We the kids on 8th street Mo Valley were Forty's first team. We're still around. Think of the Behm girls next door to you. I am Joan Behm Stebly We all wish you well.
John Sauer
April 13, 2013
Frosty had a very positive influence on my life. It was an honor to play for him and it is impossible to calculate the influence he had on everyone he met... not only players. A truly good man. May he rest in peace.
John Sauer
Lea College 1970
hendon
April 13, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort be with you and your family during your time of grief. My prayers go out to you and your family.
john earle w.
April 13, 2013
Sweet Jesus, please provide strength and comfort for his family and close friends.
Anya
April 13, 2013
'The living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all...So, all that your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for there is no work...nor knowledge in the grave.' (Ecclesiastes 9:5-10) Frosty seemed to know this, and thus lived with all his might, doing good and being good to others. May we all aspire to do the same.
Kay Bettencourt
April 13, 2013
Frosty was a customer of mine at First Interstate Bank in Parkland. He always had a smile and was genuine. I will never forget how humble and kind he was. He was a truly great man. I know exactly where he is. Kay Bettencourt
Jason Rowland
April 13, 2013
A wonderful man, plain and simple. Heard Coach talk at a clinic a few years back and I came away amazed at his message. The world needs more people like Coach Westering!
Cheryl Johnson
April 13, 2013
Westering Family..
So sorry for your Loss.Your are an Amazing Family and so strong.So glad your family became part of our life here at Silvercreek.I enjoyed serving you,and talking about the life you all have at PLU. May GOD Bless this Wonderful Family. And Thank you for sharing Memories of Frosty with us all. We Love you,and your all in our Prayers.
Cynthia
April 13, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
April 13, 2013
My deepest condolences during this time of sorrow. May the God of Comfort give peace and comfort to this family.(Phil.1:2)Barb Meill
Carl Lambert
April 13, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I knew Frosty for many years. In my broadcast career I had the privilege of broadcasting his games on cable tv for 8 years. I came to know him well. I have never failed to interview him on my radio football broadcasts of 40 years. I did interview him last fall at a Puyallup football game that frosty attended. he was always kind, complimentary and one of the most sincere people I have ever met. I had great respect for him and he for me. He presented me with a copy of his book and signed it by saying "enjoy the adventure, you are a pro." I cherish that book and the words he wrote.I will miss him as will all who knew him. A legend, a bigger then life man, who touched countless lives in so many ways. A humble and inspiring person. So long Frosty, it was truly great to have known you.
Carl Lambert
Stacy Estes
April 12, 2013
A man of men. Thank god for allowing his light to be shined on me and my family. May god bless his family while remembering all the love and guidance he brought to everyone.
Bud Galushawalter
April 12, 2013
Frosty was a great man. It was an honor to know him.
April 12, 2013
Please accept my condolences during this time of sadness. May the peace of God that excels all thought comfort the family members during this time.
Dwayne Bickham
April 12, 2013
rest in peace
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