SO SAD: Check out the names of Michigan Wolverines player that Died in a plan crash….see more
It’s indeed a tragic part of sports history. On February 15, 1959, a plane crash claimed the lives of several members of the Michigan Wolverines football team, as well as other individuals. The crash happened when a twin-engine plane, a Beechcraft Bonanza, went down in the snow-covered terrain of northern Michigan.
Among the Michigan Wolverines involved in this tragedy were three players:
1. **Leroy Bolden** – Bolden was a promising running back for the Wolverines. His loss was deeply felt by his teammates and the Michigan football community. He was known for his dedication and skill on the field.
2. **Jim McDonald** – McDonald was a defensive tackle and was highly regarded for his strength and agility. His untimely death was a significant blow to the team and the Wolverines’ football program.
3. **Frank Kmet** – As a halfback, Kmet had shown great potential and was an integral part of the team. His passing was a tragic end to what could have been a very bright football career.
The other individuals who lost their lives in this accident included:
– **Coach Warren Orlick** – Orlick, although not a player, was an essential part of the Wolverines’ coaching staff and his death was a great loss to the team’s leadership and strategy.
– **A sports writer and two team boosters** – They were on the plane as part of the travel party. Their support for the team and the role they played in promoting and supporting Michigan football was invaluable, and their loss was felt deeply by the entire community.
The crash occurred as the plane was returning from a game in the Midwest. Poor weather conditions, including snow and ice, were factors in the crash. It was a devastating event that left a profound impact on the Michigan Wolverines football program and the broader sports community.
In remembrance of those who lost their lives, the Michigan Wolverines community has honored their memory in various ways over the years. The loss of these individuals is a poignant reminder of the risks involved in travel and the fragile nature of life. Their contributions to the team and their potential were cut short, and their memory continues to be cherished by those who knew them and those who have come to learn about their story through the annals of sports history.