Channell said he received a call about the death from Cripe’s oldest son, Luke.
“He was a very pivotal part of the success we began to have here at Edgewood,” Channell said.
Cripe joined the Cougars in 1993 after nine years as head coach at Madison (1984-92). He was 39-51 with the Mohawks.
He was 8-2 in each of his first two seasons with the Mohawks, but had only one more winning year (6-4 in 1990).
During his 13 seasons at Edgewood, the Cougars won more than 100 games, seven Mid-Miami League titles (1996-2000, 02-03) and two regional championships (1999, 2003). Edgewood also was state runner-up in 2003.
“We haven’t had as much contact the last few years, but you don’t spend that much time together and not feel shocked,” Channell said of Cripe’s passing.
“My feelings go out to his sons and his family,” he said. “One thing about Dave was clear ... he loved his boys.”
Channell said Cripe’s three sons — Luke, Blake and Clarke — all played football at Edgewood.
“We shared a lot of great memories,” Channell said. “We had some tough losses, but also some great wins. “
Jimmy Cassidy, a former Edgewood player under Cripe and graduated with Blake Cripe, said, “It was very unexpected. I was caught off guard when I heard. He was so young.
“He was a great motivator,” Cassidy said. “He always found a way to motivate everybody. I feel for his family and his athletic family. It is a great loss.”
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
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