Theodore M. Katula

Monday, February 22, 2010

Ted "Katman" Katula passed away on Friday, Feb. 19, 2010 in Punta Gorda, Fla., after a six-year battle with Alzheimer's Disease and a fatal sepsis infection. He leaves behind a legacy of courage in the face of adversity and love of family; athletics, students, and alumni of DePauw University; and golf and football -- not necessarily in that order.

Born in Campbell, Ohio to the late Ted Katula Sr. and Mary Franko, Ted excelled in athletics from an early age. He was a four-sport standout and captain of the football, basketball, baseball and golf teams at Campbell Memorial High School. He was inducted into his high school's athletic hall of fame.

At Ohio State University on an athletic scholarship, Ted played football for Woody Hayes until he was drafted into the Army at the end of the Korean War. He became a paratrooper for the 503rd, and after service returned to Ohio State to complete his education and continued as a multi-sport athlete. He became Captain of the '57 and '58 Ohio State golf teams. Over the years, he collected numerous golf trophies and tournament wins.

In 1959, Ted began a 40-year career in coaching football, baseball, wrestling and golf at DePauw University. In 1967, while continuing as football defensive coordinator, he was named director of student activities, and his student union boards had great success bringing big name entertainment and events to campus.

In 1987, Ted was appointed director of athletics and men's and women's golf coach. He led the men's team to five conference championships and nine appearances in the NCAA Championships. His women's teams finished in the top four nationally for five straight years. Ted was inducted into DePauw University's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000.

Beloved by his former players in golf and football, along with the members of the student union boards, who wished to honor their mentor, over a million dollars was raised to establish not only an endowed chair for the athletic directorship, but the Katula Fund for Athletics, a permanent part of DePauw's Annual Fund, providing an opportunity for individuals to give directly to athletics for the first time in DePauw's history.

Ted is survived by his wife, Linda Martin Katula; his four children Wendy Fellmy (Bill) of Indianapolis, Laura Cislo (Dave) of Punta Gorda, Edward (Jessica) of Austin, Texas and Matt (Beverly) of Nashville. He is survived by eight grandchildren, Jessica, Jack, Drew, Brittany, Shannon, Ike, Anne and Darby. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Katula (Joan) of Poland, Ohio and sister Mary Jane Phillips (Bud) of Sarasota, Fla., as well as nieces and nephews.

Ted's passion for life and his love of athletics -- golf in particular -- and his enthusiasm for the university, alumni and students brought great joy to him long after retirement. He enjoyed playing golf in England, Ireland and Scotland with DePauw golf teams and alumni. In his last years, Ted often said, "I had a great run," and kept his positive attitude until the end.

There will be a private service for the immediate family in Punta Gorda. Plans will be announced at a later date for a memorial service at DePauw.