Tiffin, Ohio - September 27, 2010 – The Heidelberg University football team has lost a member of its family today with the passing of assistant coach Jason Bendekovic. Jason passed away early this morning at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center from complications dealing with a blood clot in his lungs. His brother, Ron, passed away five years ago from a similar condition. Ron was an assistant coach with Ohio Northern University at the time.
Jason had been a member of the Heidelberg community for five years, serving as an assistant coach (offensive line) and as recruiting coordinator. Over his coaching career, Jason had the opportunity to impact hundreds of live through his guidance and mentoring of young men.
Jason had over 17 years of coaching experience and guided numerous all-league honorees at Heidelberg, as well as top student-athletes. Prior to joining the Heidelberg coaching staff, he had coached at the United States Merchant Marine Academy and the University of Rochester.
He originally hails from Monaca, Pa., and graduated from Allegheny College. While at Allegheny, Jason played alongside his brother, Ron, and was a two-time all-conference offensive lineman.
“Coach Bendo will be greatly missed,” said head coach Mike Hallett. “He touched so many lives with his compassion, care and support. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve the passing of another child in their family.”
Tatalovich Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. from Monaca, Pa. is handling the funeral arrangements. A viewing is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 1 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. and a mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, Oct. 2, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Parish in Aliquippa, Pa.
Click here to send condolences to the Bendekovic family.