Longtime USF coach and athletic administrator Ken ‘SID’ Kortemeyer passes

It is with a heavy heart that the University of Sioux Falls, along with USF Athletics, shares that longtime coach and athletic administrator Ken ‘SID’ Kortemeyer passed away earlier today. Kortemeyer passed at the age of 73 surrounded by his family and friends.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of SID Kortemeyer, a cherished member of the USF family for over 50 years,” stated Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jon Hart. “SID exemplified dedication, loyalty and an unwavering commitment to excellence throughout his distinguished career. He’ll be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments, but more importantly for his kindness, integrity and warmth he brought to all who crossed his path. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this time. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.”

Ken began his journey with Sioux Falls College (SFC) in 1969 as a student-manager for the basketball and track programs before adding football to his workload in the fall of ’69. Following his graduation in 1974, Ken continued to work for SFC as the equipment manager before being named sports information director in 1979, which is where he would earn the nickname, SID.

Following 11 years as sports information director, SID was named the first full-time athletic director for Sioux Falls College in 1991. Due to SID’s unwavering commitment to growth and equal opportunities for women, the number of varsity sports offered to both men and women doubled during his tenure. Throughout his time as athletic director, the Cougars won 19 conference championships and one national championship while the number of student-athletes tripled.

"SID was one of a kind – his humor, selflessness and care for others made him unforgettable to anyone who knew him,” stated Kalen DeBoer, former USF head football coach and current Alabama head coach. “For over 30 years, he always brought joy into every interaction, showing a genuine interest in my family and was one of my biggest supporters. He cared deeply about others and had a way of making everyone around him laugh, even during difficult times. SID wasn’t just knowledgeable; he was thoughtful, kind and always put others before himself. We’re all hurting right now, but his spirit, humor and the warmth he shared with us will never be forgotten.”

In the fall of 2000, SID stepped aside from the athletic director position to become the men’s and women’s golf coach at USF, while also serving as compliance officer and senior athletic administrator. As a coach, he helped lead the Cougars to two NAIA National Tournament appearances along with a GPAC Women’s Golf Championship in 2007 and two GPAC runner-up finishes for the men in 2005 and 2010. The two-time GPAC Coach of the Year will go down as one of the best golf coaches in USF history.

The USF Hall of Famer had been part-time since 2011 serving as the senior athletic administrator while also teaching courses in exercise science. Throughout the entirety of his career, SID always sought to honor the Christian mission of the University by faithful service to countless students and student-athletes as well as other coaches and administrators.

"SID has meant so much to this University, literally devoting a lifetime to its mission and touching the lives of so many people in his work,” stated University of Sioux Falls President Dr. Brett Bradfield. “While we will certainly miss his physical presence, his spirit and USF mission-centric commitment will endure for all that had the honor to call him professional colleague, mentor and friend. On more than one occasion, SID would often acknowledge a quote from another source stating the following: ‘May those that follow, find us faithful’. SID certainly remained true to his word in keeping faith at the core of his time with us.” Whether it be the transition from Braves to Cougars, Sioux Falls College to University of Sioux Falls, or NAIA to NCAA Division II, for 55 years, SID’s loyalty to the University never wavered. His heart and dedication to USF Athletics was something many were fortunate to witness. SID loved being able to watch students grow and flourish both in athletics and in the real-world. His commitment to excellence at USF was significant to the University’s success over the years.

Funeral services and arrangements are pending and will be announced at a later date.