Dick Mulkern, who was inducted into six Hall of Fame, passed away at the age of 100 on April 27, 2025, in Minnesota, surrounded by his loved ones.
Richard “Dick” Mulkern was a legendary football coach and athletic director at Hamline University.
He led the Pipers football team from 1962 to 1973 and played a crucial role in revitalizing the program.
Dick Mulkern Had A Standout Career In Both Playing And Coaching!
Dick was a promising player which later shaped his coaching career. While details about his playing career are under wraps, likely, he was deeply involved in football and track and field during his high school years.
He began coaching at White Bear Lake High School, where he coached for almost 10 years.
Then, in 1962, he had a transformative coaching career with the Hamline Pipers football team.
He took over as head coach in 1962 when the program was struggling. Between 1955 and 1961, they had won only one MIAC football game, and that was due to a forfeit.
Mulker was determined to turn things around, and once said, Hamline president:
If I don’t win in five years, you should fire me, because I’ll work harder than anyone to make it happen.
He kept his promise and guided the Pipers to their first MIAC championship in 45 years in 1966. At Hamline, he coached the football team until 1973.
During his tenure, he became a two-time NAIA Coach of the Year and was later inducted into six Halls of Fame, including Hamline’s own in 1983.
His leadership extended beyond football; he coached track and field, mentoring 34 All-Americans and 12 national champions.
Happy birthday to Coach Dick Mulkern! You would NEVER know he turned 89 today! I love this guy! #whiteboardking pic.twitter.com/Gkl9rWYPZf
— Eric Burt (@coach_burt) January 16, 2014
After retiring from coaching, he continued to serve as Hamline’s athletic director, contributing to the university’s sports programs.
Mulkern turned 100 years old in January 2025 and passed away four months later.
Coach Dick Mulkern turned 100 years old this past week! Thank you to so many former players and coaches that helped make the day so special! pic.twitter.com/GB93HJER0f
— Hamline Athletics (@HUPipers) January 19, 2025
Former players, colleagues, and well-wishers shared heartfelt tributes via social media, remembering him as a legendary coach.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Dick Mulkern’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Legendary Coach!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In 1979, Dick was inducted into the Minnesota Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to football coaching.
- In 1983, he was inducted into the Hamline Hall of Fame, further cementing his legacy within the university’s athletic community.
- In 2007, he received national recognition when he was inducted into the USA Track & Field Hall of Fame.
