Former Michigan athletic director Weidenbach dies at 99

Former Michigan athletic director Jack Weidenbach, for whom U-M's main athletic administration building is named, has died.

Weidenbach’s death was announced Saturday by Michigan. He was 99.

He joined Michigan in 1966 and held several major management positions on campus, among them, director of business operations and manager of the university's physical plant.

Weidenbach became senior associate director of athletics in 1988, then was named Michigan’s seventh athletic director in 1990, succeeding Bo Schembechler, and held the position through 1994.

"Jack was an unbelievable athletic director and exceptional business mind who mentored me early in my career,” current Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel said in a statement. “I was blessed to spend time with him on multiple occasions since I returned to UM. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jack's family and friends."

One of Weidenbach’s goals as athletic director was to enhance women’s athletics at Michigan.

"Jack was truly a kind man tasked with improving the women's side of Michigan athletics and who answered that call,” former Michigan softball coach Carol Hutchins said in a statement. “The fantastic women's programs we enjoy today resulted from his intentional actions to provide the resources to that side of the department. As a result of his leadership, Michigan women lead the Big Ten Conference in total championships. That's what I'll remember him for."

Michigan gymnastics coach Bev Plocki remembered Weidenbach for giving her the “opportunity of a lifetime”.

“I am forever grateful to him for seeing something in me and giving me a chance,” Plocki said. “He combined separate men's and women's departments and brought the level of support for the women up to that of the men, which created the powerhouse that is now Michigan Athletics. He knew every athlete by name and made everyone around him feel special. I am honored to have worked under his leadership and considered him a mentor and friend."

Weidenbach was a captain in the Air Force and spent more than 20 years in aviation management before joining Michigan.

."Jack Weidenbach exemplified deliberate, effective, and humble leadership upon assuming the role of Athletics director,” Bruce Madej, a former UM athletics administrator said in a statement. “His adept navigation of university processes and politics was instrumental in leading our department. Jack's impact played a pivotal role in enhancing our women's sports program and expanding academic opportunities. Furthermore, Jack's vision extended to preserving our athletic department's rich history. Through his efforts in helping establish a partnership with the Bentley Historical Library, he ensured that U-M's sports history and traditions would be safeguarded for generations to come. His friendship was a cherished gift."

angelique.chengelis@detroitnews.com

@chengelis