Tributes following sudden death of Providence Academy football coach Brad LaCombe
Tributes are being paid following the unexpected death of Brad LaCombe, the longtime assistant football coach for Providence Academy and a former Canadian Football League linebacker.
The private Catholic prep school in Plymouth confirmed LaCombe's "sudden passing" in a statement this week, with headmaster Dr. Todd Flanders saying: "Coach LaCombe had been a part of our football family for over 15 years and was a monumental figure on the sidelines. His dedication and passion for Lions Football has left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of serving with him and being coached by him."
A GoFundMe set up in LaCombe's name says his family has been left "shattered" by his death, which happened on Friday, Jan. 19 as he underwent surgery to repair a "spontaneous, life threatening tear in his ascending aorta."
LaCombe, 53, is survived by his wife Jennifer and their four children, Kaden, Quinten, Dominic, and Taylor.
Brad LaCombe
Born and raised in Mora, Minnesota, and later attending St. Louis Park High School, LaCombe was a standout athlete, playing both football and hockey at St. Cloud State University and later playing linebacker and special teams in the CFL.
He also played as a linebacker and fullback in the Arena Football League for the Las Vegas Posse and Milwaukee Mustangs between 1995-98, and had two tryouts with the Minnesota Vikings in the '90s.
The fundraising campaign has so far gained almost $30,000 in donations.
"Brad's life was a tapestry woven with love, athleticism, football, and a commitment to health and wellness," it reads. "He and Jennifer shared a journey filled with joy, raising a beautiful family that mirrored his passion for life."
"Brad's strength, both on and off the field, made him a cherished member of the LaCombe family and the community. He was a high school football coach at Providence Academy and always had a passion for passing on the game to the next generation of young athletes."
