Coach Gene Burdan

Cecil Gene Burdan "Coach", 77, of Claremore, Oklahoma, passed away on November 15, 2025. He was born on February 26, 1948, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and lived a life marked by service, grit, generosity, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Cecil proudly served his country as a United States Marine. During his time in the USMC, he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal, honors reflecting his commitment and character. He was always proud to be a Marine-once a Marine, always a Marine.

Known affectionately as "Coach," Cecil spent many years coaching football in Claremore, Oklahoma, where countless young people were shaped by his steady guidance, dry humor, and unshakable belief in discipline and heart. The community adored him, and his players never forgot the lessons he taught-on and off the field.

Cecil was a hard worker and a natural entrepreneur, a man who could hustle, build, repair, and figure out just about anything he set his mind to. He was intelligent, reserved at times, ornery in the best way, and a total goofball when the moment was right. Life dealt him more than his share of challenges, but he pushed forward with the kind of strength that inspired everyone around him. Through it all, his children were his anchor. He carried immense pride in his family.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and living life with a quiet simplicity that suited him. Most of all, he loved being a dad, a grandfather, and a great-grandfather.

Cecil is survived by his children, Laci DiLibero "Sis" and her husband Rico, and Ryan Gene Burdan, "Buddy." He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren-Caleb DiLibero, Kynlee DiLibero, Ryleigh Burdan, and Major Burdan-and one precious great-granddaughter, Aurora DiLibero.

A proud veteran, a proud father, and a man deeply loved by his family and community, Cecil "Coach" Burdan will be remembered for his loyalty, humor, and the quiet strength that defined him.