On June 9, 2025, Pasadena City College mourned the loss of legendary football coach Dennis Gossard, who passed away at 78 from cancer complications.
Dennis Gossard, the most successful football coach in the school’s history, leaves behind his beloved wife, Jeri, and their children, Hudson and Jessica.
His passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy as a coach, mentor, and family man will live on.
Dennis Gossard Was A Local Hero Known For Football, Family, And Community
Born and raised in the Crescenta Valley, Gossard’s love for the game began as a standout player at Crescenta Valley High School.
His talent on the field took him to Glendale College and later to San Diego State, where he earned his degree.
But it was his return to his roots that defined his outstanding career.
Gossard’s coaching journey started at his alma mater, Crescenta Valley High, where he served as a coordinator and assistant coach for many years.
His passion for mentoring young athletes was evident, and his ability to inspire carried over when he joined the Pasadena City College Lancers in 1979.
For an incredible 32 years, from 1979 to 2011, Gossard dedicated himself to the Lancers, shaping the program into a powerhouse and leaving an indelible mark on the community.
While Gossard served as head coach for only 10 seasons, his impact was monumental.
In 2010, he secured his 53rd win, making him the winningest head coach in PCC’s 100-year football history.
His teams were known for their determination, achieving postseason victories that thrilled fans. In 1990, Gossard led the Lancers to a triumph in the Orange County Bowl.
Two years later, in 1992, his squad posted an impressive 10-1 record and won the Rose City Classic Bowl against College of the Desert.
His final victory as interim head coach in 2010 was, fittingly, also against College of the Desert.
As defensive coordinator under head coach Tom Maher in 2001, he helped lead the Lancers to a Mission Conference championship.
That year, he mentored All-American linebacker James Griffin, who later joined Gossard in the PCC Hall of Fame in May 2023.
Griffin, now head coach at San Bernardino Valley College, is just one of many players whose lives were shaped by Gossard’s guidance.
During his time at PCC, he coached 14 All-Americans and several players who went on to the NFL.
Among them were running back Darick Holmes (1991 PCC), a 1995 All-Rookie for the Buffalo Bills; wide receiver Ray Ethridge (1990 Lancers), who played for the Baltimore Ravens; and defensive back Charles Mincy (1988 PCC), who suited up for the Oakland Raiders.
These athletes weren’t just players to Gossard—they were young men he mentored, pushing them to achieve greatness both on and off the field.
Football wasn’t just a career for Gossard; it was a family affair.
His son, Hudson Gossard, followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming an All-CIF quarterback at Crescenta Valley High and leading the state in passing in 2001.
Father and son worked together for years at Crescenta Valley, strengthening their bond through their shared love of the game.
In 2019, Hudson took over as head coach of the Falcons, carrying forward the Gossard legacy of leadership and mentorship.
Dennis Gossard’s Death Shocked The Football Community, Leading To Many Heartfelt Tributes
Sid Stark, a former competitor, tweeted,
“Great coach who positively touched the lives of many athletes. Always knew you were in for a fight when you competed against Coach. Epic battles when we played against his PCC teams. Prayers go out to the Gossard. RIP Coach Dennis Gossard.”
Via Twitter
Alberto O. Ocon, who both played and coached against Gossard, wrote,
“RIP Coach Gossard! Playing and coaching against you was a great experience and honor. Your presence always lite up the room! You will be missed but never forgotten. God Bless!”
Via Facebook
Spiro Anthony Psaltis summed up Gossard’s impact beautifully:
“A wonderful man, who dedicated his life to family, education, football, youth, and mentoring….who will always be remembered.”
Via Facebook
Gossard was part of a tight-knit group of former Lancers coaches who met regularly for alumni lunches.
This crew included PCC Hall of Famers like former athletic director Skip Robinson and former head coach Harvey Hyde, as well as the late Myron Tarkanian.
These gatherings were evidence of Gossard’s loyalty and the deep bonds he formed with colleagues over the years.
Dennis Gossard’s 32 years with the Lancers were filled with victories, but his true impact can’t be measured in wins alone.
He was a mentor who believed in his players, a coach who inspired greatness, and a family man who passed his passion for football to the next generation.
His induction into the PCC Hall of Fame in 2023 was a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to the game and the community.
As Pasadena City College and the broader football world mourn his loss, they also celebrate a life well-lived.
Rest in peace, Coach.
