Coach John Wooden has passed away at the age of 99 from natural causes. He was nicknamed the "Wizard of Westwood" for his amazing string of UCLA college basketball victories, but should be better known for his "Pyramid of Success": old-school virtues of hard work, honesty, and integrity. The Los Angeles Times has full coverage. To me, he epitomized all that was good in sports; perhaps something has been lost that can never be found again.
I have a brief personal memory. I became a Bruin by marriage. Coach -- his name was Coach, and at UCLA no further explanation was needed -- attended UCLA games as long as his health permitted. My then-spouse's football season tickets were located directly above his, although in much more rarefied air. Every time I walked past him carrying first one baby and then another, he always smiled and said a few kind words. He probably did the same for every powder-blue-clad child -- gracious and kind to all. His accomplishments are too many to list, but his spirit is what I remember.
The Los Angeles Times is inviting people to share their memories here.
RIP, Coach.