BRUCE STOLZ

He was born in North Wheeling Hospital, January 2, 1949 to the late Sydney and Dorothy Jean (Brinker) Stolz.

Bruce was a 1967 graduate of Bellaire High School, attended Kent State University and graduated from West Liberty State College with a Bachelor’s in Education. Always involved in sports, he also played for the former local Semi-pro football team, the Ohio Valley Panthers. His love for sports, and the Bellaire Big Reds, made for a very successful combination. Bruce started as an assistant track coach, later transitioning into Head Track Coach. During his tenure his teams were OVAC Champions in 3A or 4A in eight seasons, 1984 – 1987, and again from 1990 – 1993, with many of his athletes going on to District, Regional and even State Honors. He was also a fixture on the sidelines at Nelson Field for 50 years as an assistant football coach. He took great pride in working as defensive coordinator in his many successful seasons coaching for the Big Reds, but he was most proud of the lasting connections he formed during those years with coaches and athletes alike.

Although Bruce had other interests, he belonged to the Neffs Rod and Gun Club, the Sons of Italy and the Sons of the American Legion, his greatest love was his family.

To those who survive him, Bruce had many titles. To his loving wife of 54 years, Jenna (Higgins) Stolz, he was her beloved “Husband”, the love of her life; to his son Dirk (Lisa) Stolz, he was “Dad”; to his grandchildren Sydney (Dom) Battistelli, Jake Stolz, and his step-grandchildren Cody (Ashlie) LaRoche and Cole LaRoche he was “Pap”; to his brothers Greg and Jeff (Marion) Stolz, he was the “Big Brother” who they knew would always have their backs. Bruce also had many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. To the hundreds of students and athletes that passed through his care, he was “Coach Stolz” well known for wearing shorts 12 months a year.

Family and Friends are invited to a memorial service to be held at the Rock Hill Presbyterian Church, 56244 High Ridge Rd., Bellaire, Ohio on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 11:00am with Pastor David Demarest presiding. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Contributions in memory of Coach Stolz can be made to the Rock Hill Presbyterian Church Missions or the Bellaire Big Reds Touchdown Club at TMC Funding.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Bauknecht-Altmeyer Funeral Homes and Crematory, 441 37th Street, Bellaire, Ohio 43906.