Brian "Coach" Immekus

Brian Michael "Coach" Immekus, 54, of Sullivan, Missouri passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Born on November 27, 1971, in Washington, Missouri, to Michael and Rene (Branson) Immekus, Brian's journey through life was marked by his enduring commitment to education, his profound love for his family, and his passion for sports.

Growing up in Sullivan, Brian was a familiar face in the local schools, graduating from Sullivan High School in 1990. His academic pursuits led him to East Central College and later to Missouri State University in Springfield, where he completed his Bachelor's Degree in Communications. His thirst for knowledge and desire to contribute to the world of education did not stop there, as he went on to earn a Bachelor's in Education from Central Methodist University.

Brian's personal life was intertwined with his professional journey from the very beginning. He met the love of his life, Amy Neff, when they were both in middle school. Eventually, the high school sweethearts' relationship blossomed throughout their college years, culminating in a beautiful wedding on September 21, 1996. Brian and Amy's love brought the birth of their two wonderful children, Collin and Sydney. Together, they laid their roots in Sullivan, where they both embarked on rewarding careers in education.

For many years, Brian dedicated himself to teaching 5th grade at St. Clair Elementary. In 2015, he joined the faculty at Sullivan Elementary, and in 2021, he transitioned to Sullivan Middle School. It was here that Brian's influence extended beyond the classroom, as he was affectionately known as "Coach Immekus." His love for sports was not just a hobby but a way of life. It was joked that as a young man in school, he was the mastermind behind makeshift Fantasy Sports Leagues long before they became mainstream and was renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge of sports statistics.

Brian's coaching career began when his children were young, initially with youth soccer and baseball within the community. His dedication to coaching continued as he took on roles at the school level, eventually becoming the Boys' Head Soccer Coach and Assistant Baseball Coach at Sullivan High School. Brian cherished the opportunity to coach, reveling in the thrill of competition and taking pride in the achievements and growth of his players.

In early 2025, Brian faced his most challenging opponent when he was diagnosed with Glioblastoma. Despite the aggressive nature of this brain cancer, he faced it with the same tenacity he brought to coaching and teaching. His retirement later that year was a testament to his resilience and unwavering spirit.

Brian's interests extended beyond the field and classroom. He was the ultimate family man, treasuring his role as a husband and father, and was known for being a trivia buff-often referred to as the "king of useless information." He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Cardinals baseball, and he found great joy in family travels, with European and Alaskan cruises being particularly cherished memories.

Brian's legacy is one of love, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of a coach who lived his life with purpose and joy. He is survived by his adoring family, countless friends, and the many lives he touched through his teaching and coaching.

Brian is survived by his loving wife, Amy; his beloved children, Collin & Sydney; his parents, Michael Immekus of Washington, MO and Rene Wolfel of Springfield, MO; a brother, Chad Immekus and wife, Carrie of Springfield, MO; mother-in-law, Beth Hildreth and husband, Bart of Sullivan, MO; sisters-in-law, Tracy Barch and husband, Steve of Sullivan, MO and Rachel Sauer and husband, Matt of Eureka, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Todd Evans; his grandparents, Deral and Barbara Branson; and father-in-law, Wayne Neff.

Services will be 7:00 PM, Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan with Pastor Bart Hildreth officiating. Cremation has taken place and a private inurnment will be at I.O.O.F Cemetery, Sullivan.

Visitation will be 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at the funeral home prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Brian's memory to the Sullivan Backpack Snack Program.

Friends may send their online condolences to Brian's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.