Dennis Ceder

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/statesman/name/dennis-ceder-obituary?id=40218902Dennis Ceder, John H. Reagan High School

My Grandfather

One of my biggest heroes is my Grandfather, Dennis Ceder. His story of overcoming failure inspires me daily. I greatly admire how my Grandfather raised his three boys. These three men have collaborated to help shape the person I am today.  I want others to know the story of the great man, coach, father, and grandfather he was.

Following high school my grandfather went on to play offensive line at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin, Texas. He later studied at the University of Texas, at Austin where he completed his degree in Physical Education. He got married while attending college and it was during this time my father, Anthony Ceder, was born. After college Dennis Ceder decided to become Coach Ceder and went on to become the head football coach at his Alma Mater, John Reagan High School. He had the privilege of coaching my dad and his older brother, Keith Ceder, during his time there. However, before my dad made it to the varsity level, my grandfather became very stressed and was overwhelmed with his current role. So, he took a break from coaching to regain his mental perspective. In the spring of 2004, my grandfather received an offer from Austin Lanier High School to start back again as a head coach. My dad's younger brother, Carl Ceder, followed him there and was his player for all of his high school years.

My grandfather died of cancer in the summer of 2017. Watching my dad grieve over this loss greatly affected me. It also helped me appreciate the power of my grandfather's role as a dad, husband, son, and coach. So many people attended his funeral. There were people from every race and socioeconomic class and the room was packed. All came to pay respects to the man who had greatly influenced them in a positive way. I am one of them. My grandfather’s story will always live in me. I want to be a great son, brother, friend, athlete, husband, dad, and grandfather just like he was. With God’s help and the influence of my grandfather, I know I can make a positive impact. I will always be grateful for the impact of Dennis Ceder.