Willard, Ohio's Coach Robert L Haas, 82, went to be with our Heavenly Father on Thursday, April 20, 2023. Having two devoted caregivers, Hollie and Wanda, allowed Coach to remain in his home, despite his declining health. He joined his beloved wife, Sandra S (Lutz) Haas after 596 days of being apart from her.
On August 25, 1940 in Galion, Ohio, Bob was born to Lloyd E and Mary E (Quaintance) Haas. He joined his older sister, Carol Lauthers Long, then the farm family grew to include his brother, Roger (Dorothy) Haas and sister, Norene (Rick) Bard, all living in Bucyrus, Ohio. Bob married his childhood sweetheart, Sandra, on September 6, 1959; thus adding father and mother-in-law, Arlo and Lois (Harrer) Lutz to his family circle. Rounding that out were Sandy's siblings, brother Ron (Connie) Lutz and sister Dana (Dave) Young also in Bucyrus, except for sister, Elaine Lutz, deceased.
Bob and Sandy had a family of their own: daughters, Michele/Shelly (Dennis) Weilnau of Milan, Ohio and Melinda/Lindy (Kenneth) Richmond of Oregon, Ohio. Additionally, the family includes: 5 grandchildren, Heather Weilnau of Cincinnati, Ohio, Heidi McCord of Milan, Heath (Carla) Weilnau of Milan, Brian (Sierra) Richmond of Findlay, Ohio and Benjamin Richmond of Oregon, Ohio; plus 5 great grandchildren, Cole, Maylie and Thea Weilnau and Elena and Ian McCord, all of Milan.
Bob and Sandy graduated together from North Robinson High School in 1958. Bob earned a Bachelor's and Master's from the Ohio State University in 1962 and 1967, respectively. Bob taught Math at Groveport HS, Groveport, Ohio from 1962-1963; Southeastern HS, South Charleston, Ohio from 1963-1969; Northeastern HS, Springfield, Ohio from 1969-1971 and Willard HS, from 1971-1993. He retired from WHS as Assistant Principal where he had also been the head basketball coach for 22 years. Bob was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Willard, the R.O.M.E.O.'s club and the Gideons.
Coach Haas' career basketball wins were 522 and losses were 114 giving him a winning percentage of 82%. At Willard High School his wins were 441 and losses were 74 with a winning percentage of 85.6%. Additionally, his accomplishments at Willard High School included 5 Undefeated Regular Seasons; 7 NOL Undefeated Championships (14-0); 6 NOL Championships; 3 Co-NOL Championships; 5 NOL Runner-ups; 17 Sectional Championships; 11 District Championships; 3 Regional Championships; 4 Regional Runner-ups and 3 Final Four State Tournament appearances. His teams still hold the state record of 69 Straight Regular Season Wins (2/23/1979-12/28/1982). In 2012 the five teams that won these games were inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame.
Coach Haas' awards also include; 8-District 6 AA Coach of the Year; 3-District 6 Division II Coach of the Year; 2-Ohio Boys Basketball Coaches Assn. Coach of the Year; 1-Ohio Boys Basketball Coaches Assn. Co-Coach of the Year; 4- UPI AA Coach of the Year or Co-Coach; 2- AP AA Coach of the Year or Co-Coach; 1991 inducted into the 1st Willard High School Sports Hall of Fame; 1996 inducted into Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame; and in 2015, Bob was inducted into the Crawford County Sports Hall of Fame. In 2010 the Willard High School gym was named the Robert L Haas Gymnasium. Bob and Sandy enjoyed many exciting contests here, including play from most of their great grandchildren!
Underlying all this success there were hours of detailed planning and an incredible amount of hard work by Coach and countless others, most especially his beloved players. Bob truly cared about each person he came into contact with and faithfully maintained his top priority, to inspire each of his young men to reach his full potential in life. Coach Haas' faith in Christ guided his values and priorities, and that allowed him to influence many lives through basketball.
Coach Haas excelled at both team and relationship building. As a result, the Willard community bonded together to show its support each season. Bob and Sandy treasured living in Willard for more than 50 years. The tremendous love and support they received was so great, they never needed to leave.
Visitation will be on Sunday, April 23, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Robert L Haas Gymnasium in Willard, Ohio. Visitation will then resume on Monday, April 24, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Willard, Ohio and Tuesday, April 25, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his funeral service at 11:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Willard by Pastor Michael Padula. (There will be no "officiating" for this service, as per Coach Haas' request!) The burial will be at the Oakwood Cemetery in Bucyrus, Ohio. In place of flowers, Living Gifts in honor & memory of Coach may be sent to the First United Methodist Church or to Willard High School Basketball.
Online condolences can be made to his family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com.
Condolences
Howard Eaton - May 8, 2023
I didn't know Coach Haas very well but while playing basketball for Bucyrus in the early 80's, his Willard teams were always the best coached and prepared I've ever played against. He was always kind to me, stopping over when I was injured and after games to say a few nice words to me. My sympathies to his families and friends
Jon Fast - Apr 29, 2023
I just found out that Coach Haas has passed and it makes me very sad. Bob was my high school basketball coach at Southeastern High School in 1965 when I was a senior. We were simply not very good but Bob kept coaching us like he always did, never giving up. He was a good man and a great family man. He will be missed. They don't make many like Bob anymore.
Rev. Darlene Robinson - Apr 28, 2023
Oh my, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Coach Haas. He was such a wonderful person and I enjoyed meeting him, as well as, Sandy. As a former pastor, I remember them as great supporters of the ministries at Willard First United Methodist Church. My condolences to the family.
Davey Jones WQEL Radio - Apr 26, 2023
Dear friends & Family. I was privleged to have Coach Hass on The Friday Night Phoneboard several years ago... Coach Hass, as expected, was outstanding, sharing his basketball experiences, as well as his local radio broadcast experience... A total class act, who will never be forgotten... Sincerely, Davey Jones WQEL 92.7FM
Jo & Chuck Storts - Apr 24, 2023
We are so sorry about the passing of Coach Haas. We truly loved & admired him. He will be greatly missed. Sending love & prayers to all his family. Sincerely, Jo & Chuck
Brian Bevier - Apr 24, 2023
He brought an era to Willard that I was privileged to be a small part of and brought the community together like no other time. Thank you Coach for your gift that you shared with us. We are all better for having been blessed to have been a part of your journey. Rest in Peace Coach Haas!
Linda Rish - Apr 23, 2023
I have always known Coach Haas through basketball, being from Shelby, we were arch rivals. I met him personally at a Shelby Y swim class. He was a joy and often led our arthritis class and made us laugh with his instructions. We all miss him very much. Rest in Peace, my friend.
Bob Ayres - Apr 23, 2023
I was deeply saddened to her the news of Coach Hass passing. He was not only a great coach & leader of young men, but also a wonderful person in general. He will be missed by a great many individuals, but none more than his family. Kind thoughts and prayers are going out to the Haas family. May God provide strength and comfort for the difficult days ahead, and fond memories for the years to come.
DeWitt and Matthew Wadsworth - Apr 23, 2023
Coach Haas was a shining light and and inspirational leader to anyone who were lucky enough to meet him and talk to him, and we know that he is still shining his light in every heart he touched. He will be missed and we pray that his family peace and healing.
Ned and Cheri Peddicord - Apr 23, 2023
Shelley and Lindy, we are sooo sorry to hear of your dad's passing. It was an honor to call your mom and dad our friends. May the many wonderful memories of your dad help you during this sad time. He was loved by all who knew him. Now, he is with his beloved wife with a smile on his face.
Janet and Ken Broz - Apr 23, 2023
Dear Haas Family, So sorry to hear of your loss. We pray for peace and comfort during this difficult time. We truly enjoyed our friendship with Sandra, Bob, and their family. Coach Haas was a gentleman on and off the court and led by example. Sincerely, Janet and Ken Broz
Joe Moran ‘84 - Apr 22, 2023
My condolences and prayers to the Haas family. My years as a Willard Flashes basketball player were not just about basketball, Coach taught so much about life without us knowing it. Much of what I learned I still use as a coach of young men. I can’t play a pick up game without thinking coach is watching so I have to go hard, never quit, never give in. Coach was fair, honest with his players, and always left us wanting to do anything we could to win for him. I wish we could have one him a state title, no one deserved it more. Thank you coach, your legacy will be passed on to my grandkids. Heaven is now on alert, you better up the intensity.
Dorene - Apr 22, 2023
Michele and family, I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He left his mark on this world in such a big way! Hugs to you! From, Dorene
Scott Maddocks - Apr 22, 2023
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Coach Haas. I never had the privilege of playing under his leadership. However, the excitement that he brought to Willard during his early days of coaching at WHS was truly amazing. Coach Haas touched the lives of so many in a very positive way. RIP.
Jeff Nelson - Apr 22, 2023
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Coach Haas. He made his mark in Ohio high school basketball, and was such a positive influence on the countless young lives that he touched. Coach was a respected and tough competitor, that both I, and my brother Gary, experienced first hand, playing for the Upper Rams, back in the beginning of the dynasty that he built in Willard. Years later, I had the pleasure, of working with Coach Haas, at Joe Gottfried's Ashland College Basketball Camp. I was fortunate enough to work with Coach teaching ball handling skills, and I benefited from that experience as much as the kids did. I still remember his team's pregame showmanship, demonstrating their prowess at handling the basketball. He made the game fun for his kids, and that drove their passion and pride in Flashes' basketball. NOL basketball was never quite the same when he retired. For those of us whose lives he touched, we will never be the same as well, because we're all better off for having known Coach Bob Haas.
John Dyer - Apr 22, 2023
Though I didn't add much to Coach Hass's first career teams, I gained a great deal. He had a positive influence on my faith. I count coach Hass was among those who influenced my career as a pastor. He made the world a better place.
Diane Dryer - Apr 22, 2023
Please accept my sympathy in the loss of your dad and grandfather. Bob was an outstanding and fair man as a teacher, coach and co-worker. Even at such a sad time, you can take comfort and feel gratitude for the fine parents and grandparents you had. God bless you.
Mike Buurma - Apr 22, 2023
Shelly and Lindy ... Sheila and I are so very sorry for your loss. I hope you find peace in knowing that he is with your mom in glory ... together watching over your families. I loved sitting with him during the Lady Flashes JV games and talking the game. Those times are even more special now. He once thanked me for helping him build his first undefeated NOL championship. I showed him my NCAA championship ring and thanked him ... Because without his coaching and teaching of the game basketball and life ... I would've never had the chance to earn one. RIP Coach
Mick, Sandi and Michaella OBrien - Apr 22, 2023
Coach, you was one of a kind. Willard loved that you came here and coached. You were well loved by the community and so respected. You will be missed. Our condolences to your family
Kenneth Risner - Apr 22, 2023
MR Haas was a role model, someone to look up too. Even for those of us who weren't athletes. He was a profoundly good person and I will never forget him. Rest easy coach
Cynthia Lewellen Branham - Apr 22, 2023
My sincere condolences to Shelly and Lindy. What a legend your dad left behind! I rejoice in knowing that Sandy was waiting for him. I'm sure a big Flashes cheer went off in Heaven when Coach showed up! May our merciful Father grant peace and comfort to the family. RIP Coach! There will never be another coach like you!
Sharie Dulski - Apr 22, 2023
Your father's obituary showed what a vital part of the community he was and how many lives he touched. Lindy he passed these gifts to you through your work as a therapist! I'm sorry for your families loss and God bless
Connie Montgomery - Apr 22, 2023
So sorry for your loss, Sandy. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift if memories in exchange. Hold on to your memories and let guide you during this time of sadness. Prayers for you and your family.👏
James Reece - Apr 21, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. I know it's a difficult time, God be with you all and bring you peace.
James Reece - Apr 21, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. I know it's a difficult time, God be with you all and bring you peace.
Steve Schwan `Class of '72 - Apr 21, 2023
I played for many coaches but none greater than Coach Haas. He instilled in his players a will to win and even better instilled leadership skills for life. He loved his players and showed them how to be successful through hard work and dedication. Our condolences to his family and all who are grieving the loss of this talented man. It is comforting to know he is now with Sandy in Heaven, mentoring and teaching, I am sure of that.
Roger Winemiller - Apr 21, 2023
I stopped in the see coach shortly after Sandy had passed. Out of the hundreds he coached and the thousands he taught, he knew me the minute I walked in. What I thought would be a quick visit turned into 3 hours. I was amazed at what he remembered and how he recalled the fine details. I call very few people “Coach” but Bob was just that. He genuinely cared for you and pushed you to be your best on the court and in the classroom. I will miss him but heaven is getting a good one.
Margaret Drury - Apr 21, 2023
Dear Michelle and Melinda and families, I am very sorry and sad to hear of your father's passing. Both your parents were outstanding Willardites, who gave their hearts to the community. May beautiful memories fill the void of their absences.
Carol Hostetler - Apr 21, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with Shelly and Lindy and their family. Your father and mother were very special friends. God has truly blessed everyone that has entered their lives.
David Haueter - Apr 21, 2023
The years I spent on the Willard Basketball team and in particular my senior year in 1984 were some of the most memorable of my life. I was proud to be a part of it and to have Coach Haas as our leader.
BARB JONES - Apr 21, 2023
Sending hugs and Sympathy. The town of Willard all love the coach. He and his family are members of my church.God Bless. bj and family.
Greg McDowell - Apr 21, 2023
My heart is heavier than it has been in a long, long time. My Coach had the ability to get the most out of his players. I will be forever proud to have had the distinct privilegefor of playing for Coach and because of him, many of us will always bleed Crimson. My condolences to the Haas family for the loss of your patriarch and our basketball icon.
Jeff Cox - Apr 21, 2023
Coach I don’t know where to begin, but I will always remember that team you and your family my thoughts and prayers are with your family,
Jim McIntire - Apr 21, 2023
I am proud and fortunate to be among those coached by Bob in what I believe was his first head coaching job at SEHS. A great coach, also an outstanding math teacher which seem to be overlooked in the obituary. Perhaps understandably, due to his success as a coach. RIP
Rick Gula - Apr 21, 2023
I had the privilege of playing 1 year of basketball @ WHS under Coach's tutelage. I didn't play much, but he taught me so many life lessons which made me a better person. Those life lessons helped me become part of who I am today. Thank you for that coach!! Later in life after I moved back to Willard, I was able to see Coach many times around the Willard area. We always had great conversations and also asked how my parents and family was doing!! RIP with you wife and YOU WILL TRULY BE MISSED!
Paul Adams - Apr 21, 2023
What a great coach and person. I played for coach Haas in the mid 70’s. He had such an outstanding knowledge of the game. He challenged you to be your best. He made the game fun. My sincere condolences to his wonderful family. He will be greatly missed. RIP coach with your wife Sandy.
Jim and Margaret Payne - Apr 21, 2023
Lived across the street the past few years. I knew him as a man dedicated to his beliefs and a man I respected as much as anyone I have known. A good man has left us, but his memory will linger on.
Greg Haueter - Apr 21, 2023
Coach had a profound influence and impact in the lives of all of us who played under his leadership. I'm grateful that I can count myself among many young men who called him "coach." We are thinking and praying for all of you.
Joanne and Kim - Apr 21, 2023
Our deepest sympathy in your loss. We will miss our neighbor. Prayers for your family.
Loyd and Dreama Caudill - Apr 21, 2023
Bob was an amazing person. We always enjoyed visiting with him whenever our paths would cross. He is going to be greatly missed. We know he is rejoicing over being at home with Jesus and with Sandra. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Marilyn Sands - Apr 21, 2023
Bob’s life is a testament to love of family and friends, success as a teacher and coach and concern for his community. We will miss his smile, his laugh and friendship. RIP Bob. Love to Michele and family and Lindy and family.
