Edward W. Niehl, beloved educator, coach, mentor, community leader, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, at the age of 102.
Ed was born on March 5, 1924, in Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, and was raised in Burien, Washington. He attended Highline High School, where he excelled in athletics, participating in football, basketball, baseball and track & field, specializing in the pole vault.
In 1944, following his basketball season and before completing his senior year, Ed answered his country’s call and enlisted in the United States Army during World War II. Serving in the artillery, he was responsible for running telephone lines to forward observers on the front lines. While serving his country, Ed also continued his love of athletics by playing on the Army company football team and was selected all division.
Following his military service, Ed enrolled at Washington State College in 1946. In 1949, he married the love of his life, Edith Christensen. Together they made their home in Pullman, Washington, where Ed continued his football career at Washington State College until a back injury during his senior year ended his playing days. He earned a degree in Physical Education in 1951 and later completed a degree in Education in 1954.
Ed began his teaching career at Kapowsin High School in 1950. In 1951, he transferred to the newly established Bethel High School, formed through the consolidation of Kapowsin and Roy High Schools. What followed was a remarkable 31-year career dedicated to students, athletics, and the Bethel community.
As a football coach during the 1950s, Ed led teams that achieved back-to-back undefeated seasons, including one extraordinary team that went through the entire season without allowing a single point to be scored against them. In 1954, he founded the first Bethel Booster Club, helping build community support for student athletics and activities. He became Athletic Director in 1956 and served in that role until his retirement in 1981.
Ed’s influence extended far beyond the playing field. He was the driving force behind the Bethel Recreation Program, creating opportunities for countless young people to participate in sports and community activities. His unwavering commitment to youth was reflected in a phrase he often repeated: “Let’s do it for the kids.”
In recognition of his extraordinary service, the Bethel High School gymnasium was named in his honor upon his retirement in 1981. He was also inducted into the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame, the Bethel School District Hall of Fame, and the Highline High School Hall of Fame. He was one of the directors of the original Bethel School District Athletic Hall of Fame.
Even after retirement, Ed remained active and engaged. He continued playing recreational slow-pitch softball until the age of 81, embodying the belief that staying active was the key to a long and fulfilling life. When asked how to live to 102, his answer was simple: “Keep moving.”
Above all else, Ed cherished his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Edith (Christensen) Niehl, who passed away in 2014; his brothers, Ted (Jeanne) Niehl and Vern (Cathy) Niehl; and many treasured family members and friends.
He is survived by his sons, Bob (Trish) Niehl and David (Misty) Niehl; grandchildren Michael (Shelby) Niehl, David (Bekah) Niehl, Daniel (Meghan) Niehl, and Katelynn Niehl; great-grandchildren Addison, Lucas, Cody, Emersyn, and Marlow; his sister, June Brady of Des Moines, Washington; and many special nieces and nephews who brought great joy to his life.
A private graveside service for immediate family will be held on July 8, 2026, at Fir Lane Memorial Park. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. [Public service TBA, please allow the family their privacy on July 8]
Ed leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, generosity, and inspiration. His impact can be seen in the generations of students, athletes, educators, and community members whose lives he touched. His example reminds us all to invest in others, stay active, and always remember what mattered most to him:
“Let’s do it for the kids.”
His life was truly well lived, and his legacy will endure for generations to come.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Pierce Prairie Post 