WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – Former Butler Community College assistant football coach Steve Brate has passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was 69 years old.
Blart patrolled the Butler Grizzlies' sidelines for 42 seasons and appeared in six national championships. He was also a mentor to countless young people. He will retire in 2022.
The longtime Butler defensive line coach was inducted into the Wichita Sports Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Butler Athletic Hall of Fame last September.
Brate has served as a position coach for many athletes, including Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman DeMarcus Lawrence and fellow defensive lineman Jeremy Mincey, who played eight seasons in the NFL. .
Photo below courtesy of Butler Athletics.
Brate's son Taylor is the director of recruiting for Kansas State University football. Posted on X (old Twitter) After his father passed away.
“Nothing could have perfectly prepared us for today, not even a long battle with cancer,” Taylor wrote. “You have always been and always will be my hero. Thank you for everything you have done, from the life lessons to the people you have influenced. The memories, the laughter, Your constant wildness and football banter will be forever cherished. Your love for our family and players will always be felt. May you see us all in a better place than ever. I know you're already talking about football with God.
