An expert in the field of hammer events, Lane Dowell, tragically died on Monday.
A longtime social studies teacher at West High School, Dowell coached football at West, Olympic, North Mason, and Olympic College, while cultivating a special love for track and field.
He became an expert in field events, including the hammer, shot put, and discus, and officiated at prestigious competitions such as the U.S. Track and Field Trials and the Prefontaine Classic.
As an adult, he competed himself, qualifying for national master’s events and later founding the West Sound Senior Games.
Coach Lane Dowell Died At The Age Of 83, Leaving Everyone Devastated
According to reports, Coach Lane Dowell, affectionately known as “Lanny,” passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the age of 83, in his home in Tracyton, following a prolonged illness.
United States Track & Field Officials took to their official Facebook handle to announce the tragic news. They wrote,
I regret to pass on the news that our “Hammer Head” Lane Dowell passed away. This was the 2000- 2004 Oly Trials Hammer crew. RI P ” Coach”🙏❤️
United States Track & Field Officials
Bob Sager, an extension agent at Montana State University Extension, took to the comment section and offered his heartfelt condolences. He wrote,
I had the opportunity to call Deanna today and shared what I believe we all shared in the respect and admiration we all had in our “Hammer Head” who made those days we shared around the ring so memorable and enjoyable. It was truly an honor to work with him and all of you those years. Bless all the memories and I hope we all can get back together again in the future.
Bob Sager
Dale Robinson from Alpine, Utah, wrote,
You can bet he and Finn Hansen are going over stories right now.
Dale Robinson
Louise King-Taylor also offered her heartfelt condolences.
Very, very sorry to read this news. Lane was very generous with his time and energy. He loved the throws; especially the Hammer.
Louise King-Taylor
In addition, Noah Garguile, president of the Kitsap Athlete Roundtable, said,
“I’m so glad he was able to be honored with his West High team in the Kitsap Hall of Fame,” “I know how much he loved those players and those memories. I can only imagine him and Coach Semancik are sharing a beer today, reminiscing about the good old times together.”
Noah Garguile
Other close ones and relatives have also poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Lanny’s family to stay strong in this heartbreaking time.
His funeral service schedule will soon be made available by his family. Rest in Heaven, Lane Dowell.
Lane Dowell Is Survived By His Wife, Deanna Dowell
Coach Lane Dowell was married to Deanna Dowell in 1970.
With his wife of 55 years, Deanna, Dowell co-founded the Chuck Semancik Foundation in 2000, honoring his mentor and legendary Bremerton football coach.
Over the past 25 years, the foundation has awarded more than $340,000 in scholarships to nearly 200 Bremerton High graduates, while also spearheading projects such as Semancik Victory Park at Memorial Stadium, honoring veterans, state champions, and community heroes.
Sadly, Lane and Deanna’s married life ended following the tragic death of Lane. Deanna recently said,
“He was really proud of being part of Bremerton, West High and Bremerton,” “The kids, he enjoyed every single student-athlete, no question. He just loved that work.”
Deanna Dowell
