Former Esperanza football coach Gary Meek, who guided the Aztecs to two CIF-SS titles in the 1990s, died on Thursday.
At Esperanza, Gary Meek expanded on a foundation led by coach Pete Yoder to lead the Aztecs to two CIF championships, six league titles, and 15 playoff appearances in 17 seasons.
He compiled a record of 144-50-5- and had only one losing season.
Meek highlighted his tenure by guiding Esperanza to three consecutive section finals from 1990 to 1992.
The Aztecs beat St. Paul 25-7 in the Division 3 final in 1990 to finish 14-0.
During Meek’s tenure, he teamed with assistant coach Bill Pendleton, among others, to hold a physical team known for its outstanding linemen.
Future NFL players Travis Kirschke and Brenden Stai were standouts under Meek.
While Meek coached plenty of standouts, it was his interaction with all his players that left a lasting impression.
Meek’s coaching tree includes Pendleton, who guided tha Aztecs to a Division 1 runner-up in 2005, Rancho Alamitos’ Mile Enright, and Corona Centennial’s Matt Logan.
Football Coach Gary Meek Passed Away At The Age Of 76
Former Esperanza football coach Gary Meek tragically took his last breath on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the age of 76.
As per Gary’s family, he was on dialysis and went to the hospital with an infection. He died while in hospice care at a skilled nursing facility in Yorba Linda.
A Lake Havasu City, Arizona, resident, Kristen Rae Payne, took to her official Facebook handle and mourned the loss of Gary. She wrote,
What an incredibly sad day this is! Coach Meek was one of the most amazing human beings I ever had the honor of knowing and impacted my life immensely! RIP Coach Gary Meek. You will be forever missed! ♥️🏈💛
Kristen Rae Payne
Shelly Dangleis Winters also took to her social media and offered her heartfelt condolences by stating,
I’m so sorry to hear this! He was such a wonderful man and the Meek’s have always been such a huge part of Esperanza, as well as touched so many lives. Sending prayers to the family for comfort and strength
Shelly Dangleis Winters
Markell Morris also mourned the loss of and said her mother was Gary’s high school classmate. She wrote,
I’m so sad to hear that. He was my mom’s high school classmate and taught me to drive. We were just talking about him over the weekend.
Markell Morris
Other close ones and relatives have also poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Gary’s family.
Gary will always be remembered for his unforgettable contributions as a football coach at Esperanza. Rest in Heaven, Gary Meek.
Gary Meek And His Wife, Sharon Meek, Were Blessed With Three Children
Esperanza football coach Gary Meek was married to Sharon Meek in 1969.
Sharon has always supported Gary in balancing his professional and personal life. Sadly, their married life ended after 56 years following the tragic death of Gary.
Earlier in 1993, Sharon announced that Gary had undergone double-bypass surgery. The operation was performed at St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton.
Sharon also said that Meek, who had remained physically fit, never complained of pain but did admit to being tired.
Gary and Sharon were blessed with one son, Jeoff, and two daughters, Melissa and Kristy Meek.
Jeoff is a graduate of National University and Concordia University Irvine, where he earned a Master of Arts in Coaching and Athletic Administration.
They are currently mourning the tragic death of their father, Gary Creek.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Gary Meek was a ball boy in grade school and played at San Diego State.
- Jeoff lives in Yorba Linda with his wife, Carrier, and his two sons, Nathan and Benjamin Meek.
- Jeoff started his Don’s career in 1991 as a freshman and played tight end for legendary coach Dave Ogas.
