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One of Michigan's Greatest Assistant Coaches Has Passed Away at 79

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Dec 11, 2024 8:50 AM ET

Longtime Michigan football assistant Robert "Bobby" Morrison, whose dedication to the Wolverines spanned from 1987 through 2022, has died at age 79, his family announced Tuesday.

Before joining the Michigan family, Morrison crafted an impressive coaching journey that began after his playing days as a linebacker at Findlay College. His path to Ann Arbor wound through several prestigious programs, including William & Mary, NC State, LSU, and Navy.

Morrison, who arrived in Ann Arbor at the invitation of legendary coach Bo Schembechler, served the program in multiple crucial roles over his 35-year tenure. He shaped the Wolverines' defense as outside linebackers coach (1987-1994), developed offensive talent as line coach (1995-1996), built future teams as recruiting coordinator (1996-2002), and orchestrated special teams (1997-2002).

In their heartfelt announcement, Morrison's family painted a portrait of a man who cherished family above all else. Morrison's pride extended to his accomplished children - son Rob, a retired U.S. Navy Captain living in Hawaii and Naval Academy graduate, and daughter Robin, who earned degrees from both Michigan State and Michigan before serving as a Foreign Service Officer with USAID in Kyiv, Ukraine.

His greatest joy, according to his family, came from his grandchildren: Spencer Morrison, currently studying at American University; Catherine Martz, a freshman pursuing International Studies, Public Health, and French at Michigan; Peyton Morrison, an accomplished swimmer and tennis player in Hawaii; and Caroline Martz, a volleyball co-captain and artist at New England Innovation Academy.

While the University of Michigan has yet to release an official statement, the Wolverines community has rallied online to share memories and condolences for a coach who dedicated over three decades to their program.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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