Chris Deeks, Football and Lacrosse Coach, 60

Chris Deeks had a teaching career that spanned 36 years, both on and off the field, spanning four school districts. He passed away on Aug. 30 of a heart attack, days before the start of the new season.

A graduate of in 1970, Deeks obtained his degree in sociology with a minor in secondary education and math in 1976. He also spent time as a member of the Pride’s football team in 1970 and lacrosse teams from 1971-74.

He began his teaching career at Bethpage High School, teaching history and coaching football and boys’ lacrosse, the sports with which he would be most associated with for the rest of his life.

From 1992 to 2007, Deeks was at Floral Park Memorial, rebuilding the boys lacrosse program which had been absent from 1980-89, as well as coaching on the youth level.

In 2010, Deeks moved on to  High, where he was the head coach of both the football and lacrosse programs. He was also a history teacher at the Highland School in Fresh Meadows and at Bethpage.

He is survived by his wife, Joann, their two children, his mother and a brother. A wake was held at the on Monday with a funeral is scheduled for Tuesday at 10 a.m. and internment to follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park.