Harold Edward “Ed” Rohloff
October 9th, 1947 – November 2, 2017
Your welcome heaven; or at least that is how we feel about parting with a legendary father, grandfather, uncle, husband, and sometimes coach. Ed Rohloff peacefully turned the page in his playbook to the next chapter on November 2nd with family loyally at his side. Regardless of the circumstances, Ed moved on in peace and the comfort gained through life experiences outside, with his family, and on the field, ultimately due to an unexpected infection and the complications of pneumonia.
Born in Harrington, Kansas in 1947, son of Harold Laverne and Florence (Hartke) Rohloff. His family eventually moved to Colorado where he completed his primary education at Evergreen High School. Ed played football and completed college as a Battling Bear at the University of Northern Colorado. Before making coaching his career he pursued his passion for the outdoors working for the U.S. Forest Service. Eventually he recognized his true calling, teaching kids, both as an educator and a coach. At the age of 21 his career started at St. Labre, Montana. Six years later he coached two years in Greybull, Wyoming, followed by an assistant coaching position at Eastern Montana College (MSU Billings), finishing his career with 26 years building the Custer County High School physical education and football program.
Only a handful of people can claim over 200 career wins and still insist, “it’s an opportunity to teach things to the kids. It’s not about winning and losing all the time”. In 2001 he was inducted into the Montana Coaches Association Hall of Fame where he can proudly hang his hat on including 16 playoff appearances and five State Class A titles of the nine Class A championship appearances. Ed has been the MCA Class A Football Coach of the Year five times, 1997 National Federation Coach of the Year for section eight and 1998 National High School Athletic Coaches Association Regional Coach of the Year. In both 1997 and 1998, he was a finalist for National Coach of the Year. He has coached in the East-West Shrine game three times and the Montana-North Dakota Badlands Bowl three times. Ed is a co-founder and served on the executive committee for the Montana-North Dakota All-Star football game.
On June 5th, 1971 Ed married Nancy Gay (Polston) Rohloff, also a career educator, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The family they built together includes three children, Josh Edward, Jason Jenner “Scooter”, and Molly Marie Rohloff. Ed’s brother and fellow Denver Bronco fan, Lloyd Rohloff, lives in Bailey, Colorado and both are preceded in passing by their sister Kristy, and brother, Jeffrey B. Rohloff.
Attending Denver Bronco football games often brought the families together and while seeing the infamous Elway “helicopter” run front row at the Super Bowl was a special moment in Ed’s life. There was nothing more special than raising his family, being a grandfather, and uncle. Nieces and nephews Sara, Cable, and Marc Rohloff, keep the Colorado, Bronco pride alive. Closer to home Ed would jump at any opportunity to spend time with his grandkids Hayes, Izabella, Jenner, and Harlow.
Ed has had many four-legged companions through the ears. You know a Bronco fan when his dog’s name is Elway. Ed is preceded in passing by The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly; his pet deer (Good), first lab (Bad), and duck (Ugly).
The Rohloff family is taking time to be present together and will not attend the open visitation from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday November 9, 2017 at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home. The celebration of Ed’s life will be led by Jerry Coon and held at the Custer County High School Gymnasium at 2:00 pm on Friday, November 10, 2017. Reception to follow at the Park Place.
The Rohloff family is working with the educational system and local community to create a scholarship fund in Ed’s name and ask that any condolence offerings planned to be purchased or donated be contributed to the scholarship fund once up and running.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Open visitation - family will not be present)
Thursday November 9, 2017
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main St
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday November 10, 2017
Custer County District High School Gymnasium
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Open visitation - family will not be present)
Thursday November 9, 2017
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main St
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday November 10, 2017
Custer County District High School Gymnasium
Miles City, MT 59301
Share
Linda Ronning says
I am so sorry my prayers are with you
Wes Hodgson says
So sorry to hear of this loss. Thinking of you and the Rohloff family. Ed impacted a lot of lives and gave Miles City a lot to be proud of in sports.
DAN AND SUMIKO DINARDI says
So sorry for the loss of a great coach and person He will greatly be misses
famil
Amanda Grealish says
So very sorry to hear about Ed’s passing. Ed was my throwing coach in Track and Field and also my PE teacher in High School. He played a big part in Miles City athletics. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I pray Gods comfort be with you all in the days ahead.
Amanda Christiaens Grealish
Bruce and Cindy Ingraham says
Nancy and family, Bruce and are thinking of you all at this time. Our family knew Ed on so many levels in our lives and enjoyed them all. Bruce and Cindy
Pam Fletcher says
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Pam and Clark Fletcher
Anita Kurtz says
Dear Nancy and family, I am sorry for your loss of your beloved husband and father, Ed. He was a great coach
and leader in your community. I am praying and thinking about you during this difficult time and days to come. Love Anita Kurtz
Doug and Lucy Benge says
Although our kids did not play under Ed, they were in school with his kids, and so we knew he and Nancy, as well as spending a few years on the school board. Always a gentleman and well liked by our kids and all of his players and students. Not only was he a great coach, but he also built a very successful cadre of coaches under his AD administration. Best wishes to Nancy and all the family.
Catherine Byron says
Nancy and Molly and Family –
I was stunned to learn of Ed’s passing. It is hard to believe that those vibrant individuals such as he will ever be taken from us. Somehow it seems to multiply the difficulty of that final goodbye. You are in my heart and prayers and thoughts, and will remain so over the coming months. Always remember – one day at a time and sometimes, one step at a time. Look to the Source of your comfort, for you will not be asked to walk through this difficult time alone.
Joan Leinwand says
Sending my condolences. Dave spoke of you both often.
James L. Arneson says
I seen Ed in Albertsons awhile back and had the chance to visit, what a wonderful man. I worked at the school district with him and was always happy to see him as he had such a smile on his face. If you watched him as he walked onto the football field you seen how he carried himself not only as a coach, but as a man who mentored kids. May God comfort his family now and always. Rest In Peace Coach.
Raylynn Sleight says
Some of my best memories from high school include watching Cowboy football from the sideline as a manager for Coach Rohloff. He was a wonderful coach and even better person and I love a live football game thanks to him! Deepest condolences to the family. He left a great legacy and impacted so many CCDHS students and athletes.
Dawn says
I am so sorry to hear of the coach passing away. He was a great man. My prayers go out to his family. Just know that he Rest In The Arms Of God and now he’s an angel that will watch over you forever.
Jean Jones says
I was just visiting with Coach the other day….I told him that I will always refer to him as “Coach”, he laughed and said he was used to it, and liked it! I will miss his whit and banter.
Rest in Peace
Many thoughts and prayers to Nancy and the kids
Casey & Cindy Phalen says
Thinking of you all. Thanks Coach for you leadership throughout my years of High School and even beyond. One of my best memoirs was the spirit pole we carried to the Playoffs.
Don. Schillinger says
Ed was a great fb coach & friend who was highly respected by coaches throughout the state and particularly Eastern Montana. I enjoyed our many years of friendship & good times. Our prayers to Nancy and family.
Dorothy Schwartzenberger says
I so sorry for your loss of Coach. Sending prayers and thoughts to family. He was the great coach and to our community and when in high school.
Lyman and Leslie says
So sorry to hear about Ed, you and the family are in our prayers.
John Johnson says
Nancy and Family,
I am heart broken to hear of Ed’s passing…my former teammate at UNC, former roommate for several years in college, my roommate on football road trips and a groomsman in my wedding in 1968. He was always my great buddy. I have dozens of memories of Ed I have been recalling. Nancy, I remember when you two met in college when you were living in the apartment just below us in Greeley. A big part of my life has been taken away from me. The last time I saw Ed was a year ago I think it was when he was taking a car to Molly in Denver. He stopped by and spent the night with me here at my home. We had a great time sharing the past and catching up with the recent. God Bless.
Gary & Marlys Martin says
Sorry to hear about Ed’s passing. Much too young to go yet. We have many fond memories of our times with Ed and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Terry and Jan Wagner says
Nancy and family,
We are sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. I first knew him as a fellow teacher, but we especially remember and appreciate the impact he had on our son’s lives. Quite often the subject of football comes up in family gatherings and both Ryan and Jase rate high school football, the coaches and teammates at the top of their lists. Being part of three championship teams taught them the value of hard work and team work instilled by Ed. His record and the remarks expressed here by so many speak volumes to the impact he had on students, athletes and the community. God Bless.
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
Dear Nancy and family,
Earl joins me in sending you heartfelt condolences in the loss of your beloved husband and Father. May you find comfort and strength in knowing others care. We are thinking of, and praying for you at this difficult time. May warm memories help soften your sorrow ,and may faith help you face each tomorrow.
Roger A. Curtiss says
Gosh, I am going to miss my friend Ed Rohloff. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with Nancy and the family. Ed and I have not talked in a while, but I’ll never forget the times my family and I lived in Miles and Ed helped me to coach young girls and boys basketball and soccer. Yes, he was a great coach, but a much better person. I remember the long talks with him and Nancy, and those talks are forever part of my fondest memories and our great friendship. The last time Ed and I talked, I happened to be traveling through Miles and called Ed and he came right out to the motel and “dang” we had a great talk, as usual. Rest in peace my friend.
Ron and Marilyn Frize says
We were so sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. He had such a significant impact on all three of our sons during their high school sports years. Our prayers are with you all during this most difficult time.
Diane Welbes says
Nancy & family–So sorry for your loss, know that my thoughts & prayers are with you.
Joan Bunke says
Please accept our thoughts and prayers.
Garry & Joan Bunke
Maureen Larson says
So very sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all during this difficult time. May your memories and knowing the impact he had on the young men he coached bring you comfort. God bless.
Kolleen & Butch Forsyth says
My heart is breaking for you & your family, Nancy. Both Ed & you have been such an awesome additions to Miles City. I value the years you and I worked together at Forsyth Elementary. I’ll always be a fan. Sincere sympathies from Butch and I in Iowa.
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T Krutzfeldt says
As a coach, he not only commanded but he Gave respect. He positively impacted hundreds of young men, who are impacting communities around the world today! He embodied the spirit of Miles City and Montana in fine fashion.
Mitch Hillier says
Nancy ,Scooter ,Josh and Molly . Ed brought Respect, pride and strength to an entire athletic program and community when your family arrived in Miles City. Ed was an innovative coach that effected so many students lives on the football field and in the classroom. More than anything you and Ed have been great friends to Mom and dad over your 35 plus years. Miles city and Custer Higj have lost an amazing Coach, Teacher and selfless friend. Ed’s memory will continue to inspire all who
Dee Yates says
I am so sorry to hear about ed he was a very kind and caring person rip Ed
Tom Willingham says
Harold Eddy, Rough and Ready Rohloff!
My best friend. I miss you so much.
My deep and sincere condolences to Nancy Rohloff and family, and his scores of friends and former players. Rest easy in heaven, dear friend.
Jim Person says
Ed was a great thing coach and friend. He was gereat.y respected in eastern Montana and if your teams competed against his you know you had to ready for a tough fight. Ed was a good friend from when I knew him in Wyoming until today. My prayers are with your family.
Pete Stanton says
We are very sad to hear of Ed’s passing. Coach Rohloff was a highly respected coach and a Montana coaching legend. We had him speak at Dan’s clinic last spring and he did an amazing job. What an impact he made. Much respect to you coach and prayers to his family.
Lawrence Torstenbo says
The Torstenbo family offers our prayers and blessings to Ed’s family! Ed was a great role model and mentor to my boys in the 80’s! He was well respected by the all who competed against him on the gridiron and will be truly missed by the Miles City Community he so dearly loved! Rest In Peace Coach Rohloff for a job well done! Your Cowboy spirit is etched in the halls of Custer County High School forever!
Lisa Nelson Wilstead says
Coach Rohloff was an excellent coach, and a good man! We will remember all the hard work, dedication and love he had for his athletes and the community.
Julie Krutzfeldt says
Working with Ed for many years in the school system, I watched a man who communicated with few words but touched so many students with his love for them. He liked kids and they liked him! We will all miss Coach Rohloff. My deepest sympathy and love to Nancy, Josh, Scooter, and Molly.
Terri Lee Turnquist Nation says
Nancy, Josh, Scooter, and Molly,
I was so sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. I have many fond memories of being a Cowboy Football cheerleader. Coach Rohloff always included us and made us feel like we were a part of the team. He was an amazing coach who made such a huge impact on so many young lives in Miles City. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God give you comfort and strength.
Vanessa James says
Nancy and family
My prayers are with you all..i have to comment simple because if it wasnt foe coach talking me threw alot of bad choice i wouldnt be here today..i remeber him taking me in the gym and spending alot of his personal time visiting with me..him telling me i was welcome in your home or to find molly and tell her ..i never needed it after that talk..but i trully though he forgot about me till when i saw him at HRH i walked in the room he said Vanessa you look so good..im happy to see you
.i wont forget those memories or the long talks..he was my quardian angel among a few others..We have lost a wonderful man who trully made a huge impact on all of us…my prayersand comfort to you all
Sacramenta Landrum says
So sorry to hear about your loss find Hope and comfort in God’s wonderful promise for the loved ones we have lost in death John 5:28,29 and Revelation 21:3,4.
Kim Stanton says
Dear family,
We are so saddened to learn that Ed passed away. We are grateful for having had him in our lives. We’re sending our love, prayers, and condolences your way. Peace be with you all, Kim, Kasey, and Kyle Stanton
Frank Tooke says
Ed a fine coach, educator and thoughtful spokesperson
For athletics, academics and the community. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Doug and Diane Ellingson says
Nancy, Josh, Scooter, Molly and Families, Our condolences on your loss of Ed. He will be greatly missed in the community and State. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Diane and Doug Ellingson
Sandy McFarland-Hays says
Nancy, Sending comforting prayers to you and your family during this very sad time.
Nancy Willingham says
Nancy, Josh, Scooter, Molly and grandchildren, I send my deepest sympathy in the loss of your husband/ father/ grandfather. He has truly left a void in the lives of many. Fortunately, he also left a legend as a phenomenal football coach and educator. I am so blessed that he was in my life’s journey and will carry many fond memories in my heart forever. I know you were met st the Pearly Gates with loving, open arms. May God comfort and watch over your family left behind. May they find support and comfort through their faith, family and friends. Hugs and prayers your way.
Nancy Willingham says
Nancy, Josh, Scooter, Molly and grandchildren, I send my deepest sympathy in the loss of your husband/ father/ grandfather. He has truly left a void in the lives of many. Fortunately, he also left a legend as a phenomenal football coach and educator. I am so blessed that he was in my life’s journey and will carry many fond memories in my heart forever. I know you were met at the Pearly Gates with loving, open arms. May God comfort and watch over your family left behind. May they find support and comfort through their faith, family and friends. Hugs and prayers your way.
Marcia and Bill Sterhan says
Nancy,
As we share our sorrows over the loss of loved ones, please know our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May your loving memories of Ed continue to live in your hearts and bring you peace, comfort and smiles.
Glenn and Katie Hageman says
So sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. A giant of a man who was a dedicated coach, educator, person and friend. His accomplishments will be forever remembered and he did so with such class and grace. We will always cherish the memories shared during Cowboy football and Badlands Bowl festivities! In our play book he was the best of the best! Our thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and family.
Glenn and Katie Hageman
Cheryl and Bill Schwarzkoph says
Nancy, Josh, Scooter, and Molly, heartfelt thoughts and prayers for all you and families as you grieve the loss of husband, father and grandfather. What a testimony to Ed’s life and how he touched others lives are the thoughts listed above. May that caring carry you through this difficult time.
Ken Stein says
Dear Nancy and family, Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you. We will always have fond memories of Ed and your family as great neighbors and friends in the best neighborhood in Miles City. We will all miss him.
Dale Abbott says
Coach Rohloff is remembered by many St. Labre old timers. His service to the Mission was greatly appreciated and will always be apart of St. Labre Indian School History. As a former Football coach, I watched Ed’s career with awesome admiration. Condolences to Ed’s family.
Ernest and Teresa Bighorn says
Nancy and Family,
One of my life’s memorable moments was shared with Coach Rohloff at the state football championship in Butte, Montana back in 1981. We were on are final offensive drive with less than a minute left in the 4th quarter and we were behind on 4th down about a yard from a touchdown. Just then, Coach Rohloff called a “Time out”. He called me over and asked my thoughts on the next play. I am sure he already new what he was going to call, but at that moment, he was measuring our resolve. He asked me, “What do you want to do?” I thought, “A field goal would win the game, but the option was working.” I told Coach, “The left side option.” Coach said, “Get it in!” We won that day!
Coach Rohloff was a teacher, a mentor, and much more but as a coach he spoke to our inner spirit both as an individual and team, but his greatest call was having hope and faith in each of his players. Thanks Coach.
Our love and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Denise Harvey says
What a beautiful tribute! This was an amazing story to tell about an amazing man! Take care and May God Bless you with cherished memories to hold on to and comfort when you miss him!
Denise and Jay Harvey
Fred and Vicky Anderson says
Nancy and family,
We were shocked and very sad to hear of Ed’s untimely passing. He was a great coach who had a gift for connecting with the young adults with whom he worked. He influenced the lives of our three sons who played for him in a very positive way. Looking back on the years we spent together at CCDHS brings many fond memories of Ed, Nancy and their family. He was an outstanding person who was a good friend and colleague. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike Shonka says
Nancy and Family,
Ed was a great friend, teammate and person. I have so many memories from our time at UNC with John Johnson, Tom Willingham, and so many others that helped to make for such a rich experience. We didn’t see much of each other following our college days due to the distance between Montana and Kansas, but I often think of the times we had together and have to smile. I am so grateful that we were able to reconnect at the memorial service for our defensive coach, Buck Rollins, in 2014. I have a picture of Ed, John, Tom and me from that reunion that is even more special now. Even though we looked a “little” older, our smiles and warm embraces reveal a special and lasting friendship! Nancy, out thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Mike and Nancy Shonka
Charlotte Foran says
Nancy and Family,
Sending you thoughts and prayers. You are such a special friend to me and my heart is breaking for you. Wishing you peace and love during such a difficult time.
Charlotte Foran & Family
Melanie patch says
Sending my love, and prayers for peace within. Love you ALL!!! Mel and Lee and Logan.
Jared Bankey says
Nancy,Josh,Jason and Molly and the rest of Ed’s family,
I was lucky to have Coach involved in my life through the years. He was the man roaming the sideline with the cowboy hat that coached my brother. Then he was the athletic director and head coach when I arrived at Custer. He became my PE teacher my junior year and taught me about leadership. This is when the relationship took form due broken feet that didn’t allow me to run down to the field. So coach made the decision to have me ride with him to practice . I can remember him saying “Bubba what I say goes and don’t worry about what they think”. I didn’t think it was fair for my teammates. He and I had some good conversations about the game of football during these times. I then went to college and would take breaks from school to allow my body to heal. I then got asked to help out with the team and had the privilege to be on staff. Coach knew my passion for the game and made me feel welcome when I was searching for a path. This went on during different times I found myself home. When I finally came home it was Coach that found me a position in the high school and a position as the JV coach.
It seemed like coach was always looking out for me in some capacity. He taught me so much that I didn’t understand about football and how to handle players. When it was time to move the line in the sand or stand your ground with tough love. I picked up one of coaches traditions of getting a fresh pair of cowboy socks before every game. He was right about fresh socks making you feel good. I heard that his other tradition was reading a note from Nancy whether it was his horoscope or note or newspaper clipping. Then going to the park and sitting on a bench to feed the squirrels some french fries.
I would just like to take the time to thank you guys for sharing your father and husband. He did so many good things for his students and players. This is what I will remember about coach. Thank you
Jamie and Marti Clayton says
Nancy and family,
We are so sorry to hear this. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Stacie Hilderman-Fellingham says
Rohloff Clan,
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I have so many fond memories growing up in the Rohloff household. Nancy and Ed were second parents to me and Molly a sister then an now. May god comfort you all in these difficult times. Please know I am thinking of you all and send my love!
Pam Rogge says
Condolences to the family, my prayers are with you at this time and in the days ahead.
Paige Monestime (Mikelson) says
Rohloff family,
Coach Rohloff was a kind, patient and inclusive influence on me my senior year. He allowed me to be a student athletic trainer for the team and it was a great experience. He made Chris S. and I feel like we were part of the team at practice, at the games and on the road. On one late night trip back from a game – probably vs. Glasgow, he noticed that I was one of the few still awake on the bus so he asked me to help him calculate statistics. He assumed because I was young I’d be able to whiz through the mental math. He was wrong! (math not being my strength) But he patiently allowed me to help him and taught me some football statics and plays in the process instead of embarrassing me further. After the season ended Coach took Chris and I out to lunch to thank us for helping with the team. He asked us what we thought happened in that shocking and rough loss to Whitefish and he listened to our opinions, treating us like adults. I am grateful I had the opportunity to get to know him a little and I am saddened by his passing. My thoughts are with you.
Paige M.
Melode Warner says
Words escape for the pain you are feeling. I am praying you feel the love of Jesus.
NANCY ROHLOFF says
HEY YOU ! I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU MORE TODAY AND LESS THAN I WILL TOMORROW! NR
SP says
I regret to hear of his passing, but the man left a legacy that will forever be remembered in Montana Class A football. God speed, coach.