Philip C. Teegarden

      Philip C. Teegarden Jr.,88, known affectionately as Phil or “Coach” to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, in Elkhart, IN. Born on October 1, 1936, in Mishawaka, IN, to the late Philip Teegarden Sr. and Neva (Milliken) Teegarden, Phil's life was marked by his generosity, intelligence, and kindness.

      Phil grew up in Mishawaka and was a proud graduate of Mishawaka High School, Class of 1954. His passion for education and sports led him to Indiana State University where he received his undergrad when he graduated in 1958. He then went on to receive his master’s degree from Northern Illinois University.  Phil's journey as an educator and coach began shortly thereafter, touching countless lives in the Michiana area.

      Phil's coaching career was as storied as it was impactful. He served as a coach of all sports for a year at Ashboro Township for a year, Beiger Junior High for four years, and Greene Township La Salle for three years. His leadership skills shone when he became the head coach at Green Township for two years and North Liberty for three years. Phil's tenure as head coach at South Bend St. Joseph High School for 19 years, South Bend Riley High School for two years, and Elkhart Memorial High School for 19 years until his retirement left an indelible mark on the community.

      His coaching accolades were numerous, including the Moose Krause Chapter Hall of Fame Contributions to Football Award, the 1980 State Coach of the Year, and the Sportswriters and Sportscasters, NIC Coach of the Year in 1998. Phil was also honored as the South Bend Tribune Coach of the Year in 1998. His dedication to sport was evident as he served as an assistant coach for the North-South All-Star game in 1972 and as the North head coach in 1998. Phil was also instrumental in starting mini clinics in region 2 in 1973, using his school of St. Joseph to host them, further contributing to the development of the game he loved. He was a member of First United Methodist Mishawaka, a Fifty-year board member of Ferrisville Cemetery Mishawaka, and was inducted into the Indiana State University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022. 

      Phil's legacy extends beyond the football field and into the hearts of his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly (Parsley) Teegarden; his children, Tammy (Jim) Jarvis, Terri Teegarden, Dennis (Tracy) Teegarden, Step children; Christopher (Nancy) Baldwin, and Brent (Elizabeth) Baldwin; grandchildren, Mark Frey, Scott Frey, Alexandra Jarvis, Mackenzie Jarvis, Nathaniel Jarvis, Taylor Reihl, Torey Crowell, Allison Baldwin, Sam Baldwin, Ashley Baldwin, Sydney Baldwin, Garrett Baldwin, Maria Baldwin, and Brady Baldwin, along with his fourteen great-grandchildren, will miss his presence and guidance. He also leaves behind his siblings, Betty Moubray Ballard, Doris Clark, and Ruth Gill, who will remember Phil for his unwavering support and the love he extended to his family.

      Phil Teegarden Jr. lived a life full of passion, dedication, and love. His contributions to his students, athletes, and community will be remembered as a testament to his character. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of nurturing young minds, shaping athletes, and enriching the lives of all who knew him. Phil's journey on this earth has ended, but the lessons he taught, both on and off the field, will continue to inspire for generations to come.

      Visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM in Hahn Funeral Home 505 W. 8th Street Mishawaka. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in First United Methodist Church Mishawaka 201 E. 3Rd Street Mishawaka at 10:00 AM.  Burial will follow in Ferrisville Cemetery Mishawaka. To leave an online condolence visit hahnfuneralhomes.com

      In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made in Philip’s name to the Caring Cove Hospice, 3120 N Home St, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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