In Loving Memory
Lauren Forrest Kardatzke, 86, of Maryville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2024.
Originally from Elmore, Ohio, Lauren was a beloved husband, father, coach, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his devoted wife, Anita Kardatzke; his children, Liesl (Matthew) Bohan, Erik (Valerie) Kardatzke, Christen (Ryan) Barnes, Lindsey (Geoffrey) Smith; and his cherished grandchildren, Kelly Bohan, Timothy Bohan, and Brant Kardatzke.
He is also survived by two siblings: Milan (Brenda) Kardatzke and Lois Moore. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Eula Kardatzke, and six siblings: Gwendolyn (Lyle) Brinkman, Kathleen (Gerry) Rhoda, Kenneth (Nita) Kardatzke, Ellen (Gerald) Goldsby, Richard (Arlene) Kardatzke, and Miles (Juanita) Kardatzke.
Lauren, a proud alumnus of the College of William and Mary, demonstrated his passion for football on and off the field. After playing in high school and college, he remained at William and Mary as a graduate assistant, where he worked alongside assistant coach Lou Holtz. Next, he was recruited to Maryville College by his former Tribe teammate Monk Tomlinson. He soon became known to his football (and tennis) players as Coach K, ultimately spending 12 years with the Scots, including two as head coach. He then held the position of Offensive Coordinator for a decade at Tennessee Tech University. Though he eventually transitioned to a successful business career, even serving as Vice President for The Plateau Group, Lauren never relinquished his first title. To the countless players, coaches, and students he mentored, he will always be remembered as “Coach K.”
Lauren was a man of deep faith and integrity, living his life with humility, kindness, and a quick-witted sense of humor. A devout Christian, he shared the values of his faith with his family and, through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, with players and students on two campuses. His dedication to the Maryville community shone through his volunteer work at the food pantry and years of service on the city council.
A memorial service to celebrate Lauren's life was held at Monte Vista Baptist Church (1735 Old Niles Ferry Road, Maryville, Tennessee) on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 2:00 pm, and refreshments were served in the fellowship hall following the service.
Lauren will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his generosity, dedication, and the love he shared with those around him.
Related: A Tribute