Wes Santee, one of the first men with the ability to run a sub-4-minute mile, died Sunday morning of cancer at the age of 78. A native of Ashland, Kan., who ran for the University of Kansas during 1952-54, Santee became a three-time U.S. outdoor champion. He set the world record in the outdoor...
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
Clint Milbourn
July 20, 2025 | Other
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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
huntington
March 04, 2025 | Friend
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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.
Kim Hartzell
December 18, 2021
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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.
Frank Hamilton
June 08, 2017 | S[pokane, WA
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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.
Bruce Adair
January 15, 2012 | Des Moines, IA
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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.
Alden Mann
April 04, 2011 | Boothbay Harbor, ME
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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. ...
ralph moody
December 25, 2010 | Dixon, CA, CA
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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...
Desi (Angelo) Viner
December 23, 2010 | Wichita, KS
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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...