Longtime MHS football coach Lew Lane passes away

MANHATTAN — A legendary high school coach who helped lay the foundation for Manhattan High football has died.

Lew Lane who coached at MHS from 1976 to 1997, passed away Sunday after suffering a stroke. He was 73.

Longtime voice of the Manhattan Indians and former KMAN Sports Director Matt Walters says Coach Lane was one-of-a-kind.

“It was difficult to see coach battle with his health issues. He’s a tremendous reason Manhattan High football is what it is today. It’s going to be tough not to see coach anymore. I’m very glad that I got to call Lew a friend,” said Walters.

In 2015, the field inside Manhattan’s Bishop Stadium was named in his honor. Lane guided the Indians to four state title appearances, winning a state title in 1988. Walters says he earned the respect of his players and his community.

“His kids and his players loved him. He had an impact on their lives in so many different ways. That’ll be one of the things I remember most, is how many young men he helped shape and mold and get down the right path,” said Walters.

Walters explains what he appreciated most about Lane’s coaching philosophy.

“I appreciated his intensity and his caring. Coach was a nuts and bolts guy and there wasn’t a lot of fluff when it came to Lew Lane.”

Funeral services will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Faith Evangelical Free Church, 1921 Barnes Road in Manhattan with interment to follow at Sunrise Cemetery. Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.