Altoona Mourns: Legendary Coach Buddy Geis Dies at 79 After Leukemia Battle

Neptune Beach, Florida, USA - Wayne „Buddy“ Geis, a name synonymous with football excellence, has passed away at the age of 79 after a prolonged battle with leukemia. His death on Wednesday morning was reported by the Altoona Mirror, marking a somber moment for the community he cherished and the sport he shaped throughout his illustrious career.

Born and raised in Altoona, Buddy Geis’s journey in athletics began early. He was not only a star at Altoona Area High School, where he excelled in football and baseball, but also made a name for himself as a standout wide receiver and cornerback. Geis graduated in 1965, and his speed and defensive skills were celebrated among peers, earning him respect as a tough competitor. A memorable game-saving tackle against McKeesport during his senior year showcased his robust athletic capabilities.

A Coaching Legacy

With a coaching career spanning over three decades, Geis’s influence extended far beyond Altoona. He began his journey in the late 1970s, holding positions at Tulane, the University of Kansas, and the Memphis State. His coaching talents found a significant platform in the USFL with the Jacksonville Bulls before he made the leap to the NFL, taking on the role of wide receivers coach for the Green Bay Packers under head coach Lindy Infante in 1988.

At Green Bay, Geis was pivotal in developing Sterling Sharpe into one of the franchise’s all-time greats. His ability to connect with players was legendary, fostering an environment where talent flourished. He later graced the sidelines for teams like the Indianapolis Colts, where he coached future Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison and quarterback Jim Harbaugh, and the Dallas Cowboys, working alongside icons like Michael Irvin and Troy Aikman.

His final coaching chapter unfolded at Georgia Tech in the mid-2000s, where he mentored another future NFL star, Calvin Johnson. Throughout his career, Geis helped shape the trajectories of numerous players, many of whom went on to achieve great success in the NFL.

Remembering a True Mentor

Buddy Geis will be remembered not just for his coaching acumen but also for the warmth and positivity he brought to every locker room. Teammates and former pupils spoke fondly of his exceptional people skills and the genuine care he showed for their growth both on and off the field. His legacy as a mentor has left a lasting impact on countless lives.

As a proud Altoonan, he never forgot his roots. During his induction into the Blair County Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, he expressed immense pride in his hometown, highlighting the values and support he received growing up. Geis is survived by his wife Jere, their children, and many grandchildren, who will undoubtedly carry forward his love for the game.

In a world where many athletes transition to coaching but few leave a legacy as profound as Geis’s, it’s clear that his dedication shaped not just the sport but the lives of those who played it. The football community and his beloved Altoona will miss him dearly.