High school sports: Hall of fame track coach passes away

Wittenberg University held a grand opening ceremony and open house for its new Health, Wellness & Athletic Complex called "The Steemer" Friday evening. The new $40 million facility features an indoor athletic field, running track and strength training center. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

Wittenberg University held a grand opening ceremony and open house for its new Health, Wellness & Athletic Complex called "The Steemer" Friday evening. The new $40 million facility features an indoor athletic field, running track and strength training center. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

The Miami Valley recently lost a legend in the track and field community.

Ralph Bergdoll passed away last month at the age of 87 in Dayton.

A West Virginia native, he was a member of the Ohio Track and Field Hall of Fame who coached track at Miamisburg from 1958-87 and later worked at Wittenberg.

Bergdoll, who also ran a regional recruiting site during his retirement years, also served as an official for USA Track and Field.

A service is planned for Bergdoll at St. James Methodist Church in Miamisburg at 11 a.m. Friday.

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