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Louis Saban Obituary

Louis H. Saban, 87, died Sunday, March 29, 2009 at his home. Born October 13, 1921 in Brookfield, Illinois the son of the late Nicholas Saban and the late Mary Sonkovich. Lou was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving with the O.S.S. in China during World War II. He was a member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, the NFL Alumni and the B.P.O.E. Lou's love affair with football began playing for Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, IL and continued for over 50 years including 2 undefeated seasons as the captain and standout linebacker for the original Cleveland Browns followed by head coaching stints with the fledgling Boston Patriots, the Denver Bronco's and two stints totaling eight years with the Buffalo Bills (AFL Champs 1964-65) (2003 yard season by running back O.J. Simpson and the "Electric Company"); Western Illinois University (2 undefeated seasons); University of Maryland; University of Miami (FL); U.S. Military Academy at West Point; University of Central Florida; and just to show his versatility two years as President of the New York Yankees. Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Joyce Saban of North Myrtle Beach; son Thomas Saban (Beverly) of Aurora, CO; three daughters, Barbara Nicholls (Dale) of Evergreen, CO, Patricia Lane (John) of East Aurora, NY and Christine Lemcke (Matt) of St. Charles, IL; three step-children, Lori Joyce (Fred) of Mt. Plymouth, FL, Catherine Evanson of Cincinnati, OH and James Smalley (Sarah) of Miami, FL; grandchildren Louis, Sarah and Lorraine Saban (Aurora, CO and Brookline, MA); Jeremy Saban, Anna Saban and Casey Nicholls (Evergreen, CO); Carly Sturgess (Erie, PA); David Hogencamp (Sleepy Hollow, NY) and Taylor Hogencamp (East Aurora, NY); 2 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Joe Saban (Virginia) and John Saban (Geri) and sister Kay Blondo (CA); and predeceased by brother Mike Saban (LaGrange, IL). Lou was also predeceased by his first wife Lorraine Saban. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11am Saturday, April 4, 2009 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 1100 8th Avenue North, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. Family will receive friends following the service at the Church. Memorials may be made to Mercy Hospice at PO Box 50640, Myrtle Beach, SC 29579, or Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church Building Fund, 1100 8th Avenue North, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is serving the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by East Cook Life on Mar. 30, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
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Martha Lillie Bryant

April 4, 2009

Tomas,Barbara, Patricia, and Christina,
I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. I remember when you all lived in Hamburg and your Dad coached the Buffalo Bills. He was a great coach and had four great children at that time. I remember having some great times babysitting for you during those years. I even have a bracelet you all gave me for graduation and every time I still wear it I think of you four. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mercy Hospice & Palliative Care

April 2, 2009

The staff and volunteers of Mercy Hospice & Palliative Care wish to express our deepest condolences to Mrs. Saban, their children, and all extended family members. At such a difficult time, it is so thoughtful of you to think of other Mercy patients and family members by creating a memorial in Mr. Saban's memory.

We hope that you will find comfort and peace during this time of sorrow and a measure of solace knowing that gifts received will help us continue our mission and calling to care for and comfort all patients in need within our shared community. It was our privilege to serve your family. Please do not hesitate to call upon us if your family is in need of any emotional support or further assistance.

Gary Walters

April 2, 2009

To Tom Saban and Your Entire Family,
I am so sorry over the loss of your father Lou. He was a true champion of not only Sports, but on how to be a great leader. Lou Saban will always be a Legend in Buffalo.

Joe Ferguson

April 1, 2009

Lou was my first head football coach in the NFL at Buffalo. Both he and Jim Ringo taught me more football in my first couple of years than I ever new existed. I always admired Lou because all he wanted to do was WIN games and let everything else fall where it may. My sympathies to the Saban family.

Ron Kurimsky

April 1, 2009

I met Coach Saban when he was coaching the Buffalo Bills. He struck me as a good, down to earth man who was focused and 100% dedicated to his team. I'd bet he managed his family affairs the same way - focused - dedicated - family first. He is being mourned in Buffalo where he was both loved & respected. My sympathies to the entire Saban family.

Bob Milroy

March 31, 2009

I only met coach Saban one time. That was when he was president of The New York Yankees and I lived in Hyde Park, N. Y.. He gave me and my friend Chuck two tickets to a game and invited us to the front office after the game. Another time, he had tickets at will-call for me when U. Miami played at Notre Dame. I had helped recruit his nephew, Bill, to play football at Iowa State University. I have not forgotten either of them. Coach Saban had a big heart for people. And his thoughfulness for me will never be forgotten. May coach Saban rest in peace in the loving arms of our Lord.

Comfort Keepers

March 31, 2009

Dear Saban Family,

All of us at Comfort Keepers were deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Saban's passing. He certainly enjoyed a long and interesting life. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.

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