Eric B. "Coach" Traasdahl

Eric “Rick” Bernard Traasdahl, 73, passed away peacefully January 1, 2017, with his family at his side. Rick was born April 5, 1943, to parents Carl B. and Billie Jean Traasdahl in Henderson, Nevada. He is survived by his wife, Sue, of 47 years; daughter Traci; sons Larry and Eddie; granddaughter Kayla; his two siblings Brad Traasdahl, spouse Joanne, and Joyce Bragg. Rick grew up in Boulder City and graduated from Las Vegas High School where he was known as an excellent athlete. He earned his B.A. from Southern Utah University in Physical Education and Zoology. A stellar athlete and student, Rick was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. It was at SUU where he met the love of his life, Susan Jane. They married March 22, 1969. Rick then earned his Master’s Degree from Northern Arizona University; simultaneously, he served in the National Guard until 1972. Rick was a career teacher and coach in the Clark County School District for 30 years. He shaped many lives both on and off the field and will always be remembered as "coach" by students and friends. During his career, Rick was a member of a multitude of state and national football organizations including the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame. In 1995, he was awarded Educator of the Year by Reader’s Digest. Upon retiring from teaching and coaching, Rick worked with Peccole Nevada and Total Safety Incorporated Security. Rick loved his family more than anything and cultivated relationships with friends that became family. He will be forever missed but always in our hearts. Services will be Friday, January 13, 2017, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints Chapel at 3300 N. Buffalo, Las Vegas, NV 89129. The viewing will be from 10:00-11:45 a.m. and the service will follow at 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Friends of Parkinson’s Organization.