Howie Kangas Obituary – WDC Retired Coach Passes Away At 93

Howie Kangas, a retired Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools coach, passed away on June 8, 2023. He will always be remembered as a remarkable coach, teammate, and leader.

The official Facebook page of WDC first shared the Howie Kangas obituary on Thursday, June 8, 2023.

According to reports, Howie, who lived in Perham, Minnesota, passed away last night. He was a beloved coach and mentor to numerous young athletes.

Superintendent Lee Westrum of Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools made a Facebook post on the school’s official page in which he shared the Howie Kangas obituary and death news.

Westrum mentioned that Howie had been a valuable member of the Wolverine family since 2012 when he joined as a physical education teacher and Head Football coach.

Howie had been part-time teaching 5th and 6th-grade physical and adaptive physical education at the Middle/High School.

Westrum requested the staff to keep Howie’s family in their thoughts and prayers.

What was Howie Kangas cause of death?

The specific details regarding the cause of Howie Kangas’ death have not been disclosed to the public.

However, his family has confirmed the sad news.

Perham’s former Activities Director Fred Sailer said, “Countless young men have benefited from their connection with him and emerged as better individuals.”

Howie Kangas’ head coach journey

In June 2012, Howie Kangas took on the role of head coach for the Wolverines.

Despite inheriting a struggling team with only 17 players in their previous season, he tirelessly guided them toward a brighter future.

With a record of 16-48 over seven seasons, he remained patient and unwavering in his vision.

After the 2018 season concluded, Kangas made the decision to step down as head coach.

The passing of Howie Kangas has deeply impacted those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Perham Public Schools and Independent School District 549 extended their sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Notably, Kangas was honored to be inducted into the Perham Hall of Fame in 2019, followed by the Frazee Hall of Fame in 2022.

As a Physical Education teacher, Kangas left a positive impression on countless students from different grade levels, often endowing them with special nicknames.

During his time in Perham, Howie Kangas displayed an equally remarkable coaching career, overseeing football, basketball, and softball teams.

He holds the prestigious title of being Perham’s most successful football coach, with an impressive overall record of 119-65.

His remarkable accomplishments include guiding the Yellowjackets to five Section 8AAA Championships, two Heart O’Lakes Conference Championships, and three Northern Lakes Conference Championships.

Following his successful tenure in Perham, Kangas brought his expertise to the Wadena-Deer Creek football program, where he played a pivotal role in revitalizing it.

Under his leadership, the team achieved a significant milestone by securing their first playoff victory since 1998, defeating Staples-Motley in 2017.