CORVALLIS, Ore., Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Former Oregon State football coach Dee Andros, who had a number of health problems, has died at the age of 79.
In recent years, several strokes and diabetes contributed to the failing health of Andros, who was known as "The Great Pumpkin."
"He was a big man, pretty round, and he always wore those big orange jackets," said current coach Mike Riley. "I think the name is pretty appropriate."
"Dee was a wonderful, warm human being, who just happened to be a great football coach," said former player Jess Lewis. "He cared about people and was a man you could trust and believe in. That is why he had success as a football coach and athletic director. I'll remember Dee being a trusting person who you could believe in."
His career record was only 51-64-1, and he caused a stir in 1969 when linebacker Fred Milton, one of the school's first black players, violated team rules by growing facial hair, a claim Milton himself denied.
