George Sypniewski
January 29, 2019
George Sypniewski was born September 18, 1949, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Zbigniew and Jadwiga Sypniewski. He passed away January 29, 2019, after a two and a half month battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, with his family by his side.
George played football for Drake from 1968-1972, where he earned his BA and MA. After which he began his teaching and coaching career in 1972 with the Johnston School District where he remained for 35 years. While there he taught middle school and coached high school football and track. In 1989, he returned to Drake University as a football coach. In his 25 plus years at Drake there were multiple conference championships, and he became a stalwart member of the Drake coaching staff.
When not coaching, he could be found at Menards, or in his garage shop tinkering and pursuing his hobbies of wood working and glass etching. He enjoyed traveling, outdoor projects, and spending time with his family.
George is survived by his wife of 46 years, Cheryl; son, Quinn (Mia); and grandchildren, Keira and Kolt. He is preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, February 2, 2019 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Westown Funeral Home, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Memorial contributions can be made to Drake University Football in memory of Coach Syp.
Please find below a link to the online giving page:
https://alumni.drake.edu/giveonline
The instructions are as follows:
· Enter gift amount under donation information
· Select “Other” in designation and in the “other” box, write: “Drake Football”
Additional Information:
· One-time gift
· Gift in Memory of: “Coach George Sypniewski”
· Click Add to Cart
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Matt Garvis
01/29/2019
Dear Sypniewski Family, My deepest condolences on your loss. George (or Coach Syp as we used to call) him was a great coach, but a better man. So friendly to us players and was always great chatting with him during my playing days and upon returning to Drake after graduating. I know these words will not take away the pain of your loss, but hope they provide some comfort, knowing the impact he had on mine and other players lives. RIP Coach Syp.
connie burch
01/29/2019
i had the biggest crush on you in middle school at johnston .theirfore i listened and learned in your class.
Andrea Meyers
01/29/2019
George, you will be missed by so many. You led by example. Our son's have many great memories of you as their coach at Johnston. So sorry for your loss. Our condolences to Cheryl and family.
Lu & Dan Johns
01/29/2019
Dear Cheryl, Quinn, and family, Our deepest condolences for your loss. George was a very special man, mentor, and friend to our family. He will be missed greatly by all who knew him. God Speed George!
Scott Kerr
01/29/2019
My deepest sympathy to Cheryl and Quinn for your loss. George was a tremendous man. His players at Drake really loved him and loved playing for him. He was a great role model for these young men. He may be gone but will not be forgotten.
Danielle (Markel) Osborne
01/29/2019
Such shocking news for a fabulous man who made lasting imprints in the lives of so many...Learning how to spell your name was extra credit for me in middle school but the kindness you taught me will last my whole life. Gone much too soon but never forgotten...All my love Quin & Mrs. Sypniewski
Gary Thorsett
01/29/2019
Those we love can never be more than a thought away. For as long as there's a memory they live in our hearts to stay. My deepest sympathies to Cheryl, Quinn, and family.
Scott M Engstrom
01/29/2019
RIP
Richard Safris
01/29/2019
He was a rarity in our world, an honest upright man. Gone too soon but never forgotten.
Amalie (Amy) Lange Thorsett
01/29/2019
George, why is it we can't know the final time we'll see someone here on earth? I would have asked for that final bear hug from you. I can't even begin to think how much your quick laugh, your jokes, and just you will be missed going forward. You were a big part of the framework of this family. Goodbye to you.
Shari Kurth
01/29/2019
You were one of the teachers I will always remember. You made learning exciting. I have your 79 or 80 yearbook picture in my memory book from the year we left Iowa. Rest in peace Mr. Syp.
Toni Gross
01/29/2019
What a good man and a good coach!! George influenced so many young people during his career at Johnston and Drake. My deepest sympathies to Cheryl, Quinn, and the whole family.