Ivan Koleman
February 8, 1929 - February 25, 2015
Ike was born in Maple Heights, Ohio on February 8, 1929. He was a gifted athlete in high school and went on to be the star quarterback for Ohio University. His team called him "Spunky" for his fast footwork and zest for life. He was scouted by the Cleveland Browns until an injury forced him to stop playing football but he always remained fiercely loyal to the game. It was in college where he found the love of his life, Billie Reid, to whom he remained devoted until she passed away less than two years ago.
Ike leaves behind his four children, 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Ike spent much of his life searching for a "higher power," something that lifted him, inspired him, showed him how to be a better man. He was forever creating; through sculpture, painting, writing, and the countless entrepreneurial ideas he conjured up. It was the process, not necessarily the outcome that fed his passions. He loved the action of learning and tried his hand at many varied things; in the 70's he was director for The Playmakers, a theater company in St. Charles, Illinois, he explored many religions, he learned how to make wine, and how to raise horses, he changed careers several times, learned how to cook, and moved his family "out west" in a bold act to find a better life.
He had a most tender heart, and believed that all living things had a soul, including plants and trees. He dearly loved the many animals in his life; horses, dogs, cats, birds, fish, rabbits. He was their caretaker, and he honored them even more than he honored himself.
He devoted the second half of his life to children, helping Billie in the great school she created. He was behind 100's of children learning how to horse back ride, ski, and pass an adventurous summer in the programs he inspired.
His sense of fun was boundless, as in many a Halloween where people came far and wide to the Koleman house for an experience they would never forget. He loved to entertain, provoke, entice. And he could tie a knot in a cherry's stem with his tongue.
Ike took every opportunity to show his love for his family and friends; whether giving his wife and daughters candy and flowers every Valentine's day or writing a love letter to the woman he married 50 years before that held the sentiment of a new found love. He was the one who called to check on you when you were sick, to let you know he was always there if you needed him, to yell, "Atta boy!" while watching you win a game.
On February 25th, 2015 with his girl waiting on the other side, Spunky took up his beloved football once again and made his greatest touchdown.
A celebration of Ike's life will be held on Monday, March 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building.