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Phil Prijatel Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Phil Prijatel
Sponsored by Loving Family.
Walter Zuleger
November 4, 2024
This will be 14 years now that he went before us. 60 years that he was my gym coach. Still in my heart.
Walter Zuleger, German exchange student 1964/65
Eric Nordquist
April 12, 2011
Dear Mrs. Prijatel, Debbie, and Philip: I'm so sorry for your loss. Coach was an incredible man and greatly admired by us all who were his students and friends. He will be greatly missed. You will always be in my heart and prayers.
Marlene Mendes
December 9, 2010
Coach Prijatel was a guiding light that burned brightly during his years at SLOHS. This was true not only for his students, but for his co-workers as well. Phil hired me to teach P.E. back in '84. He was like a Father to me. He guided me professionally and helped me with home projects. Marge and Phil be-friended my parents during one of those projects and have continued to keep in touch. Phil also did numerous projects for the school that are still used today. He did this all on his own time and dime. His wiggling eyebrows, the watch taped under the brim of his ball cap, and "the dungeon" are some of my fondest memories. Marge, Phil and Debbie - he was so proud of you. You all are the light and loves of his life. Phil's light will burn on through you and yours. To quote Elton John - "His candle burned out long before his legend ever will." Prayers, hugs and God's peace to the Prijatel family.
November 29, 2010
My dearest Marge, Phil,Jr and Debra-We were so sorry to hear of your loss and send our deepest sympathy to all of you and your families. I was a student of Phil in high school and he introduced me to my husband of 55 years, Louie Mikkelsen, who played football with Phil in college at Western State and then Louie was his assistant in football at Olathe. We stayed in touch with he and Marge and he was Lou's mentor as well as mine. He was a big influence in my life as a student in high school and college and was admired by so many and will be truly missed. Louie and Sue Mikkelsen, Class of 1952 at Olathe, Calhan, Colorado.
Robert Andrews
November 28, 2010
What a loss; what a good man. Coach, you helped a lot of young people, and clearly that was your purpose in life---something that most people never recognize about their own lives. I enjoyed our visits over the last few years, and know that I, and many others, will miss your friendship, your exuberance, and your love of life.
bob andrews
Olathe High School,
Class of 1954
LeRoy Markley
November 27, 2010
Dear Marge, Phil Jr. and Debby: Coach Prijatel was the most influential person in my life. He was our coach at Olathe H/S during my four years there from 1951 to 1954. He not only taught us how to be good athletes but also how to be a gentleman and a good person. I always thought of him when I was teaching my own children and grandson the same thing, always be a gentleman, especially to seniors and women. You are in my thoughts today as I remember this great coach and friend. LeRoy Markley
Jim & Carol Hoadley
November 27, 2010
We just learned of Coach Prijatel's passing. I will attempt to get the word out to as many people here in the Olathe area. Marge, Phil Jr. and Debby please accept our sincere sympathy. Carol and I were some of his first students when he started teaching here
in Olathe. We have great memories of Coach Prijatel.
Carol Scott
November 27, 2010
Dear Deb, Marge and Philip: I am saddened that a man, "bigger than life," has left this world but I think his energy will always be with you and those of us who knew and respected him.
Deb, your tremendous strength and love for your parents is a testament to who you are and where you came from. You and your family are always in my heart and in my prayers.
Love, Carol Scott
Walter Zuleger
November 22, 2010
Old Coach Prijatel, you are one of the SLOHS teachers I took home to Germany in my heart after finishing my exchange year in 1965. You were the one to talk about life to us boys and you made clear we shouldn't only use our brains and muscles but also have a backbone. At class reunions, it was a highlight for me to sit with you and have a some of your time and thoughts. Thank you for helping me grow up. Walter Zuleger, class of '65
Paul Prijatel, Jr
November 21, 2010
Uncle Phil:
Even though we didn't get to see each other very often, I always enjoyed your humor and time together with you and Aunt Marge. The last time we were all together we celebrated my brothers wedding and there must have been 20 of us Bojon's staying at his home and we all had such a good time to remember.
When you see your brother's and sister there beyond the pearly gates be sure to tell my dad that we love him. Peace be with you Uncle Phil and family.
Sandra Prijatel Oreskey
November 21, 2010
God Bless you Uncle Phil. May you now be reunited in Heaven with my dad.
Sandra Prijatel Oreskey & Family
Elaine Hyer Bell
November 20, 2010
It was an honor and priviledge to know Coach Prijatel. It makes sense why there are so many good men who came out of SLO- you all had a wonderful mentor. My favorite memory of Coach was in 1965 when he called me up in front of the assembly right before he announced the football team. Knowing his humor I was really scared at what joke he would be playing on me. He had one of the guys go to the other end of the gym and told me to throw him a pass. I did. Then he said he was going to make me the honorary quarterback because in his opinion I could throw the best passes in school. It took me awhile to understand he didn't mean my ability to throw the ball. Many fond memories to go with that one. To a man I respect and will miss.
Elaine Hyer Bell class of 65
Les Mensinger
November 19, 2010
God Bless you coach you changed many lives ...and will always be with me
Art Vinsel
November 18, 2010
Coach Prijatel was new to SLOHS in '58-'59 and so was wrestling, which he taught with intensity, honesty (we were going to lose often because we were just learning!) humor and inspiration. He was tough and sometimes that was necessary but the toughness was tempered with humanity, which is essential to all true mentors and especially those guiding teens. He missed our 50th reunion, October, 2009 and I was disappointed. Think the last time I saw him was in the 1960s and he was cordial, but made it clear he disapproved of my waxed handlebar moustache and Van Dyke beard. At least if I couldn't pin my opponents, I could grow whiskers. He was a wonderful, caring mentor and the world is a better place for his nine decades in it.
Jason Thomson
November 16, 2010
Coach was a great man and a even better friend to any kid that he came in contact with. I have great memories of him and his daily jokes . All of us that were lucky enough to have him for a teacher are better men and women for it. His life lessons are hard to forget.
Marge and family thank you and God bless
Yolanda Tarazon class of 69
November 15, 2010
Coach Prijatel... what can I say that hasn't been said he touched the lives of so many of us.. and taught us all so
much.. over the years. I have heard many stories that did not
involve me from friends and of course my Brothers.. Ha he did have an impact there...
Thank you Mrs Prijatel and Debbie for sharing him with all of us , know that he is watching over you and waiting ...
God Bless you....
Julianna Flores-Jones
November 15, 2010
In my fondest memories- He will never be forgotten...NEVER. He made such a positive difference...
Such an incredible soul; A GREAT Man.
Blessings to his family at this time of great loss.
Scott Chaves
November 14, 2010
Great guy, Coach Prijatel. Had a way of joking around that made you feel like you were part of his inner circle -- but 'everyone' was part of his inner circle and I think that was his greatest talent. I'll never forget him. My condolences.
November 14, 2010
Thank you Phil for all you did for the American Legion and Girls State program over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Marge.
John Scully - MCP
November 14, 2010
Phil Prijatel was in the truest sense of the words, "one of a kind!" As a young physical educator doing my student teaching at San Luis High, my path crossed with Mr. Prijatel. At first, I did not know how to take him, but it did not take long to find out that underneath that smile,wacky sense of humor and charm was a VERY caring and charismatic man. He made a lasting impression on me and for many years to come, he ALWAYS called me by name when I saw him.... by my maiden name, of course, but by name! He touched many lives in his teaching career and mine was one of them!
Sheila Pursley Kircher
November 14, 2010
I have in all the years never forgot Coach Prijatel, and still remember many times in SLO High PE class and the lessons we learned from him. It was an honor to have known him. He was a large man in Stature and also in life!
Scott Rogoway Class of '73
November 14, 2010
One of the most amazing things about Coach Prijatel was how he treated everyone the same. I was one of those 9000 or so students he touched and his "tough love" on so many was a reminder that caring about someone, especially young students, isn't always saying yes, but is encouraging, directing, and drawing a line to what was proper and accepted. He was the center of gravity for many kids of our generation. I went on to play basketball at Western State where Phil played football and I am sure he had a hand in opening doors for me. God bless you Phil and your family for loving on so many of us in such a profound way.
Alan Lambert "class of 73"
Jim Miller
November 14, 2010
Coach,
There is a common thread that runs through all of these tributes, and that is the lasting impression that you left on so many whose lives you touched. As a former student and colleague, let me add mine. You could change the simple act of taking roll in SRI class into stand up comedy to entertain us, and at the same time, command the respect and instill the discipline we needed to excel in sports and any other endeavor we might choose.To say you were one of a kind is an understatement.
There is a reason you were the teacher who always got invited back to class reunions. We enjoyed rekindling that connection you, and so few others, could make with us in High School. We all have our favorite memories of you and I have chuckled at many of them over the last few days. Thank you for those and all else that you taught us. You will be missed by so many.
Jim Miller, class of 67'
Shelly Heeren - Wolf
November 14, 2010
What a gem Coach was for SLO High and its students. He was that "presence" at the school that was always there to make you feel like you could do anything. I graduated many years ago, but Coach stills stands out as one of my fondest high school memories.
Lee Monson
November 14, 2010
A privilege to have him as my first football coach and mentor. I will always remember his influence. His friendly personality was always positive; always supportive; always fair and balanced. Not political. Common sense and practicality his forte. Being a part of his life was a good thing for me and I am grateful to have known him.
Lori Lawson
November 13, 2010
What a great man Coach Prijatel was! Anyone that attended San Luis Obispo High School will always have fond memories of Coach. We will miss his smile around San Luis Obispo. We hope that all family members will know how much we cared for this great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. -- Lori & Steve Lawson
Pete Pederson
November 13, 2010
Coach Prijatel---the name brings a smile to your face just remembering the fun times. He always looked after his "nuggets". Whether it was football,wrestling or golf he always made it fun. He was the best.
Gil Serna
November 13, 2010
Yes, it's always sad to learn of another of our class/schoolmates/faculty members leaving this life. He was just like a schoolmate to all of us. With his broad smile and a friendly pat on the back. He was an inspiration as a man and a coach in that he always gave you the feeling that you were special and he encouraged you to do your best. I remember the last time that I saw him was at Camp San Luis officer's club for our class of '58' 40th reunion. He was still the quintessential nice guy and still had the verve. We'll all miss him. My sincere condolences to his family, may he rest in peace. Gil Serna class of '58'.
Bob Andrews
November 12, 2010
Coach was one of the most remarkable men I've ever known. I played football for him in 1964. He had the unique ability to motivate you with just a few simple words or a swift kick in the behind. I learned some of my first lifes lessons knowing coach Prijatel. From the first time I met him in the early 60s to the last time I saw him a few months ago at an American Legion BBQ. I have had nothing but respect and admiration for coach Prijatel. MMy deepest sympathy to Marge and Debbie,Bob Andrews Class of 67
carolee collins
November 12, 2010
The packed church today spoke volumns of all the love and fond memories we have of Coach...you will be missed.
Ziyad Naccasha
November 12, 2010
Our hearts and prayers go out to the Prijatel family! Coach Prijatel was a great coach, a great guy and truly a friend to all. My God rest his soul.
Ziyad Naccasha, Class of 83
November 12, 2010
I believe that every Tiger student at SLO High School was touched by Coach Prijatel's smile and genuine interest in all of us. He is a true definition of the words "legend in his own time." Thank you for sharing him and may your memories sustain you always. My best to Debbie and Marge.
Ginger "Brown" Channell, Class of 67
Paso Robles, CA
John Atkins
November 12, 2010
Coach Prijatel was more than a football coach, he was a life coach. You didn't have to be an athlete or a popular student to receive his care. Coach was always on the lookout for a kid who needed a pat on the back and a kind word. Coach Prijatel guided me to a wonderful career in coaching and athletic training and I will always remember him fondly.
Bruce Tedone
November 12, 2010
I have spent the morning at our SLOHS teacher meeting reading all of the previous entries for Coach Phil. Phil would appreciate the fact that I'm doing this instead of listening to our administrator.
The previous writers have reminded me of the power a great man can have in his role as a teacher. But my favorite Coach P story came at his retirement dinner. Rusty Duval was explaining that Phil is an enigma - a man who could be very tough on his charges, but gracious and loving the next - an enigma. Coach P said, I'm not an engima - I'm Yugoslavian.
Coach Phil used to come into my classroom to see how I was doing, and talk to my chemistry students. There were times it may have interrupted my science lesson, but the life lessons Phil imparted were far more significant than anything I had to say. I know my students appreciated it.
To say he will be missed is an understatement. San Luis Obispo High is a very good school, and there is no doubt in my mind that it was due to the contributions of many of my past colleagues, but particularly because of Coach Phil.
Bruce Tedone, class of '71 and current chemistry teacher at SLOHS
John Thomson, Jr.
November 12, 2010
To the Prijatel family, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy at the loss of Coach. He will forever live in all our memories.
John Thomson, Jr and family
November 12, 2010
Marge, Debbie; all of us "Tigers" are saddened by the loss of your loved one, "coach" touched so many people in a very special way that only he could. He was a very special person to all of us. "Coach" RIP. Rusty Davies Class of 74
Tracy Ross 88
November 11, 2010
Coach was the best on so many levels. He was fun, goofy and always respected. He impacted so many young men and women. I had the honor of taking Coach to a SLOHS football game a few years back. We stood at the track fence and tried to watch the game. Every few minutes somebody would come up to coach with a big smile, an enthusastic handshake or hug. It was like standing next to the President or a Hero. Rest in Peace Coach you earned by showing us the way.
Bob Machado
November 11, 2010
RIP Coach Prijatel. I always had fun in your gym classes. You were an important part of so many students education. My condolences to your family.
Bob Machado class of 59
November 11, 2010
To the Prijatel Family: Anyone who came in contact with Coach was richer for it. His character made him bigger than life and he generously passed it along to others. Without a doubt we are all better for knowing him. My sympathies to you. Just know we all share in your sense of loss.
Patti Porter Howenstine
Gerald Johnson
November 11, 2010
In 2000 I invited Coach Prijatel and Marge to the class of 1965 35th reuion, I figured if some one had a problem here is 40 dollars. The committee thanked me, coach made class fun if it rained we danced with the girls in the gym. In 2005 coach told Greg Barnet if he did not get a invite to the reuion he was not coming, so he got next morning and Marge and Coach was there. I hope some one called John Madden to let him know since I understand Coach was the person who persuaded to go into coaching, Gerald W. Johnson class of 1965
November 11, 2010
Marge, Debbie, Phil and Family- Coach was the best. There have been three, four, maybe five Men who have taught me about life (or who I listened to). Coach Prijatel was one of them and I still treasure all of the lessons that I learned from him; and if I had paid a little more attention, I am sure that I would have learned a few more. He taught with intelligence, humor and honesty. One of "truths" that I listen to in my head daily was "To your own self be true". And I have recognized that if you follow that line, most everything else falls into place- and what doesn't, you can still live with it. The future Class ReUnions will not be the same, but my life, and so many, many other lives, would not be the same if Coach had not been in them. Take Care, Thanks for sharing him- Tony R. Hoffman Class of # 64
November 11, 2010
Deepest sympathy to the Prijatel family. Randal Cruikshanks - '58
November 11, 2010
Coach Prijatel, my wrestling coach in high school. He taught us the sport as he was learning it from a little book he kept in his back pocket. I don't think the Chinese vapor lock was in the book. Coach Prijatel was such a positive influence in my early life as he was in many other kid's lives. Rest in peace coach.
Dennis Bullock Class of '59
November 11, 2010
Dear Aunt Marge,
Our deepest sympathies to you and the family. We just learned of Uncle Phil's death, and so sorry we have been out of touch for a while. I have fond memories of your last visit to our home here in Pueblo. God be with you at this difficult time. Uncle Phil is with Him and dad, and the rest of the family now. With Love, Phyllis
November 11, 2010
Coach Prijatel will be missed and remembered. Condolences to family.
Sincerely,
Sharon K(Diederichs)Bogart
Class of 1960
Ernie Martin '79
November 11, 2010
When I get together with old friends from SLO High, memories of Coach Prijatel is the topic that comes up most often. His humor, love of life, stern guidance mixed with heartfelt love for all of us, and his incredible story telling abilities were greatly appreciated and have helped to guide me as a teacher today.
I was lucky to experience more stories later in life when I went to Slovenia (and Croatia, Austria and Germany) with Marge and Phil and many members of my family connecting with relatives in the old country. I will always have wonderful memories of his joyful singing of Slovenian folk songs both in Slovenia and in SLO when friends and relatives come to visit. A shot of Slivovitz is in order!
My deepest condolences for Marge and family.
Chuck Parra
November 11, 2010
Coach Prijatel was my P.E.instructor in the 70's,and I always looked forward to his class.He had a look he gave if you were goofing off, and encouragement when you did well.He led with patience and humor.Rest in peace,Coach-you will truly be missed.
Todd Gall
November 11, 2010
Coach Prijatel will be greatly missed and greatly remembered.. Thanks for all you did Coach.
November 11, 2010
Dear Mrs. Prijatel and Debby, Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. Coach was a very special man and will live on in the hearts of many. My love to you, Vicky Ryan Haskins
Vicki Carroll
November 11, 2010
Coach Prijatel had a wonderful way of engaging everyone around him in a meaningful and heartfelt conversation. You could pick him out in a crowd in a second by the group of people around him. My most memorable experiences with Phil and Marge were during La Fiesta events. He and Marge have done so much for our community. Another SLO angel laid to rest. Viva the memory of Coach Prijatel! You will be missed.
Steve Larson '60
November 11, 2010
Phil:
I was sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Whenever I think of him I break out in a smile. The overwhelming response to this Guest Book speaks volumes to the impact he had on young lives and the admiration for him. Take care.
TJ Bowen
November 11, 2010
If it weren't for Coach Phil Prijatel, I doubt we would have won CIF. He had a way of keeping everyone loose, and showed us all what passion for the sport was all about. Rest in peace Coach.
K Huehn
November 10, 2010
Coach Prijatel took the time with all of us who filed into his class every day, even those that took class somewhat less than seriously. He always told us that we would look back on our school years as being the best time of our lives… he told us so many things, and wouldn't you know it, he was right.
Mary Zavala
November 10, 2010
Mr.Prijatel you touched so many lives with your smile,kindness,laughter and being the best teacher and friend SLOHIGH could ever have. God Bless You!!!
John Tiffin (SLO '64)
November 10, 2010
"Mr." Prijatel was my PE teacher in the early 60s and even put up with my 1-year foray into the world of JV football. Stern yet caring; humorous yet insightful; one of those people that help to shape your life at a time when you don't really realize you're being "shaped." I was blessed to know him and my sympathy goes out to his family.
Bruce Hensel
November 10, 2010
Hands down, Coach Prijatel was the best teacher I had at SLO High. All my friends and I were greatly inspired by his words of wisdom and the example he set. There will never be another like him.
michael quinones
November 10, 2010
wow just wanna say that coach prijatel was a genuine real true teacher that nobody can compare and with him in our high school lives it would have been difficult so may you rest in peach coach and all your little "nuggets will always remember you class of 1986
tom creath
November 10, 2010
coach prijatel was a very special man he knew just the right things to say to lift our spirits in tuff times.heaven has just been blessed with the presence of a wonderfull man.godbless the family of coach prijatel.tom creath
Scott Collins
November 10, 2010
It’s hard to follow with something new after all that has been said, but ‘Coach’ Phil ‘walked the talk’ and was a man of value that we all seemed to learn from. Hopefully, we will all continue that walk in his place. ‘Coach’ never forgot who we were and the value we added. He will be missed, but he’s so deeply engraved on our hearts and in our minds. Heaven just got an asset boost!
Richard Hoerntlein
November 10, 2010
I am sorry to have read of the passing of Coach Prijatel. Although I went to Mission High School, I was very impressed in the way the Coach taught everybody about life. May he rest in peace.
Christal Julien
November 10, 2010
My stepdad was sad to hear about the loss of coach, he will be missed.
Tony Dollahite
November 10, 2010
Sorry for your loss. Coach was a good man that taught many young men how to be a good man in SLO for a lot of years. He will be missed.
Rod Peargin
November 10, 2010
To the Prijatel Family:
It is with a sad heart that I write this. Like others, Phil played a major role in my life. He was not only my PE teacher, football and wrestling coach, he was a good friend. I have thought of the Coach many times through the years, he has helped me many times in my life. My condolences to the remaining family. He will be missed by many.
Read more: http://www.legacy.com/guestbook/sanluisobispo/guestbook.aspx?n=phil-prijatel&pid=146538349&view=2&entry=44645149&referrer=1#ixzz14vfuffnK
bill DuMong
November 10, 2010
coach Prijatel was a great coach and he fun to be around at the elks
John Rodriguez
November 10, 2010
To the Prijatel Family:
It is with a sad heart that I write this. Like others, Phil played a major role in my life. He was not only my PE teacher, football and wrestling coach, he was a good friend.
Phil was one of the teachers that helped me to decide to become a teacher. I also had the privilege of attending SLO High with his daughter Debbie.
As I look back on those years, I wouldn't trade them for anything. Thank you Phil for everything. God Bless you!
Johnny Rodriguez
Class of 1967
Kevin Martin '84
November 10, 2010
“Prijatel” means “friend” in Slovenian. Marge, thank you for sharing Phil with so many people. He literally touched thousands of lives and for every story told here by one of his students I’m sure there are hundreds being retold today to spouses, children, friends and co-workers about our friend (prijatel), Phil.
Phil was one of my favorite teachers at SLOSH and you both have been good friends to my parents and family. I’m so glad that Phil and my father got to visit their homeland, Slovenia together. The last time I saw Phil he was still telling stories about that trip. To honor Phil I will raise a glass of slivovitz in his name and tell my children a story about him, our prijatel, Coach Phil.
Andrew Scuri
November 10, 2010
My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the Prijatel family during this difficult time. Coach Prijatel will be greatly missed, he has now gone on to coach at a much higher level and a much bigger playing field.
Greg Asury
November 10, 2010
Coach was probably the biggest influence in my professional career as a PE teacher and coach. I first met him as an 8 year old at Nuss pool, worked for him as a lifeguard and then had him as a PE teacher and coach. I loved the guy! Honest, tough but Phil always cared about every kid in that school! He helped a bunch of us grow up the right way. A great loss. My prayers are with the family and look forward to seeing Coach (uncle Phil) again some day.
Rich Gove
November 10, 2010
He was a father, a husband, a coach, a mentor and a guide. He was honest and forthright. He was a teacher of education and an impassioned ambassador continuously extolling the virtues of embracing life.
"Life is a series of collisions with the future;
it is not the sum of what we have been,
but what we yearn to be."
- Jose Ortega y Gasset
You were a good man, Mr. Prijatel. You taught us to reach and strive and never give up. You served so many so profoundly for so long. You left your unmistakable mark on an entire generation – and now that generation is charged with passing along that rare and precious legacy.
And I think somewhere right now an angel is getting an earful from our beloved Coach.
John Paget
November 10, 2010
Coach had a tremendous impact on my life. I will never forget his shaping as I played football for him at SLO. His selfless legaecy lives on in our lives. We need to all do him proud by paying forward as he so graciously did for us. Plesae know that I will be praying for the entire family at this time .
Karen Harvey-Gray
November 10, 2010
To the Prijatel Family, Our heartfelt Love and Sympathy are with you at this difficult time.Please know that Coach Phil was a much loved and respected human being.You will be in our thoughts and prayers.Love the family of Coach Bill Harvey!
Deanne Bringle
November 10, 2010
Coach Phil was the best....he taught me to swim when I was little. he will be sorely missed.
Deanne (Hurley) Bringle
Burbank, CA
Deanne Bringle
November 10, 2010
Coach Phil was my track coach and taught me to swim when I was little. What a great guy. He will be sorely missed.
Deanne (Hurley) Bringle
Burbank, CA
paul luiz
November 10, 2010
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Coach Prijatel, he was a great man. Coach never failed to kick me in the butt when I needed it and to complement me when I deserved it. He will be missed.
Lupe Oliveira
November 10, 2010
Now God has the best coach there is...he was stern but he was a sweetheart too. I pray for pease for the family.
MATTHEW KIM
November 10, 2010
EVERYONE WE MEET IN LIFE BECOMES A LITTLE PART OF US AND 'COACH' WILL FOREVER BE A LARGE PART OF OUR GIVING,CARING,LOVING HEARTS. THANKS FOR BEING SUCH A GREAT MENTOR TO ALL OF YOUR NUGGETS. GOD BLESS
Matt Tedone
November 10, 2010
Coach Prijatel was a very special man. He was a man of great spirit, immense joy, twinkle in his eye, applying a verbal jab when necessary but always as part of a lesson to be learned.
I remember in gym class the first day in SLOSH in 1971, he told us that these were going to be the best days of our lives and to enjoy it because it never gets any better than this. He was so right. He told us a lot of things that we didn't believe right away, but he was always right. And he told us these things to help us along the life journeys that we chose.
He was one of the men that made growing up in SLO so great. It was an honor to know him. He will be missed by so many.
My deepest condolences to the family.
Eric Hafley
November 10, 2010
Debby, I was sorry to hear of your loss. I have fond memories of your Father (Coach) from my younger days, if it wasn't for his patience I probably wouldn't be able to swim today!!
November 10, 2010
Our heartfelt sympathy to you,Marge and family. The Hurley Family7
Jeff Thompson
November 10, 2010
We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give. Coach Prijatel was a giver.
Hazel Culbertson Daniels
November 10, 2010
Debby, my heartfelt sympathy to you and your mother. Everyone loved your father -- truly an icon. I met your mom at the Class of 65 reunion -- a sweet mate for your father. You are a good daughter to your parents.
Kevin Watkins
November 10, 2010
I met Coach Prijatel in P.E class at San Luis High in the early 70's. He was as old school as they come, and here we were showing up in his world with our hair down to our shoulders.
I remember and respect him because he didn't judge us. As long as we showed up, followed the rules, and put forth a little effort, you were in his good graces, no matter how you looked. I can hear his voice like it was yesterday: "Hey, you guys may look a little weird to me, but for all I know, one of you might discover a cure for cancer."
Thank you, Coach.
Bob Neill
November 10, 2010
Coach - Thank you for all of your help and guidance, and only through your efforts was I able to get my high school letter. You will never be forgotten. Bob Neill "63"
Dennis Rademacher
November 10, 2010
Coach touched the lives of many young men. His talent to teach us about life through his unique methods was God's gift to us. He will always be missed but never forgotten.
Rollie McCormick
November 10, 2010
Coach Prijatel will be missed by many in this community. He was my PE teacher in high school and he commanded my respect. He taught me to stand up for myself, but also to respect others. His story-telling is legendary. My sincere condolences to the family.
George Negrete
November 10, 2010
To the Prijatel Family,
I am sending my thouhts and prayers to all of you in the loss of Coach Phil. He was a man of impact on the people's life he touched and influenced. His humor and gusto for life effected me as student of his, in High School, and in my adult life. We all will cherish our memories of him.
George Negrete SLOHS Class of 60
JoAnne Fiscalini
November 10, 2010
My heart goes out to the family of Coach Phil at this time. I did not have the privilege of knowing Coach very well during my years at SLO High, but I did get to know your son Phil as well as through my sister, June Lee and the American Legion.
JoAnne Lusardi Fiscalini, "Class of 60"
john Furtado
November 10, 2010
Coach P was a great influence on so many at SLO High and beyond. He was tough, yet fair but you could also share a laugh with him. It was great to see him stay involved in many of the reunion activities with the various classes from SLO high.
coach P you will be missed
Steve Henderson
November 10, 2010
A fine man indeed. From your '71 Nugget.
Levi Exline
November 10, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
I will always remember Coach"Uncle Phil" as one of the most influential persons in my life. I often use one of his many quotes or stories that he used to tell in my daily routine.
Levi Exline "71"
Roberta Hair
November 10, 2010
Marge: My heart broke this morning as I read about the passing of Coach. You two are the best! Coach will be missed in this world, but now he will keep God laughing with his stories! My love to you and your family and many prayers to help you get through this tough time. You are the best Marge!
SLO Tigers Forever
Matthew D. Herrera
November 10, 2010
Coach Prijatel is a very special man. Part Marine drill instructor; part philosopher; part comic; everyone's favorite uncle and an all around good guy. He will be missed by the huge number of people he touched during his life here on Earth. My deepest condolences to his family.
Rick Sawyers
November 10, 2010
I just wanted to add that Coach Prijatel was the best man that this young man had ever met. He taught myself and and many more men like me how to handle life as it came at you . he always had an ear to lend and advice to give. God Bless.
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How to support Phil's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Phil Prijatel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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