Charlie Fick was a former GAR football coach who had won more games than any coach in GAR football history. Unfortunately, he passed away on April 3, 2025.
He was a great family man and a loyal husband to his wife, Annie. His family will undoubtedly miss him.
Charlie’s passion for sports has left an indelible mark at every level, from his early days as a standout athlete to his celebrated career as a championship-winning coach.
His athletic prowess was evident from the start. He earned All-Star honors with St. Therese’s Little League as a young player. He dominated at Meyers High School as an All-Scholastic athlete in both football and baseball.
His talent only grew at Wilkes College, where he was named All-M.A.C. in football and contributed to the baseball team.
After beginning his coaching career with junior high football, basketball, and track in Elyria, Ohio, Charlie became head baseball coach at GAR High School (1973–1980), leading his team to four Wyoming Valley Championships.
Over 18 years as head coach, he secured four Wyoming Valley Conference Championships, two Eastern Conference titles, and three District Playoff appearances, finishing with an outstanding 120-80-2 record.
Unfortunately, his tragic demise left the whole community mourning.
I was very fortunate to be Coached by coach Fick. He spoke softly but he was a tough SOB. We would be freezing on the field and he would come out in shorts. I think he did that just to prove to us, don’t worry I’m tougher. He was always in shorts no matter what.
Greg Skrepenak
Charlie Fick’s Wife, Annie, And Three Children Survive Him
The GAR Memorial High School community and local sports world mourn the loss of Charlie Fick, a dedicated football coach, mentor, and family man, who passed away surrounded by loved ones.
His loving wife, Annie Fick; three children, Charles, Kelly, and Matthew; extended family; and countless players whose lives he touched over his years of leadership survive him.
The Fick family extends their deepest gratitude to the GAR community, friends, and all who shared in his journey. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he coached, loved, and inspired.
Coach Charle was a pillar of strength and inspiration at GAR Memorial High School, where he devoted himself to shaping young athletes on and off the field.
Known for his unwavering commitment, tough love, and infectious passion for the game, he instilled discipline, teamwork, and perseverance in his players.
Under his guidance, many student-athletes excelled in football and learned lifelong lessons in character and resilience.
Beyond the athletic field, Charlie was a devoted husband, father, and friend. His humor, kindness, and steadfast support left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.
Whether cheering from the sidelines, mentoring players beyond graduation, or sharing quiet moments with family, he lived a life of purpose and generosity.
Happy Anniversary to the best Husband ,Father and Poppie in the world. God has led us through amazing journey for 55 years. Thank you Charlie.
Ann Fick
A memorial service will be held in honor of Coach Fick’s life and legacy. Instead of flowers, the Fick family requests donations to reflect the coach’s commitment to youth sports and education.
A great coach doesn’t just build players; they builds people. Rest In Peace, Coach Charlie Fick.
Teacher-Coach-Leader of Men- Mentor-Friend are just a few words to describe Coach Charles “Charlie” Fick. The world lost a tremendous, God-fearing man today. I was fortunate to be around Coach since the age of 11 as a water boy, later as a player for him, and then to coach on his staff with him. My deepest condolences to Mrs. Fick Ann Fick her children: Charles Robert Charlie, Kelly Fick-Siani Kelly, and Matthew Charles Matthew along with their grandchildren.
PT Wiedlich Jr.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Charlie Fick was a Wilkes College Lambert Cup-winning football squad key member and secured the nation’s longest winning streak in the late 1960s.
- His expertise earned him a role as assistant coach for the prestigious Big 33 team in 1982.
- He played in the 1964 UNICO All-Star Game and coached the event five times.
- The Sunday Independent voted him coach of the year twice in 1982 and 1989, and the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame elected him in 2002.
