Wausau, WI – The wrestling community mourns the passing of Fred Lehrke, a revered figure and former D.C. Everest wrestling head coach, who passed away at the age of 89. Lehrke’s legacy spans decades, leaving an indelible mark on Wisconsin wrestling and the lives of countless individuals.
Fred Lehrke Started his coaching career at Oregon High School (Wisconsin) in 1963 and in three years turned out a Conference Championship team and a 24-9 win/loss record. Following three years in Oregon, Lehrke moved on to Kettle Moraine High School and produced a Conference Championship squad in only two years.
In 1970, Fred left Kettle Moraine High School with a 42-18-1 record to accept the coaching position at Monroe High School. In just three years his team produced a State Championship (1972), as well as winning the Badger Conference Championship (holding a 27-8 record). Fred’s next move was to D.C. Everest High School in Schofield, Wisconsin. For nearly two decades until his retirement, Lehrke’s leadership guided the Evergreens to unprecedented heights.
In 1978 Lehrke’s D.C. Everest Team won the State Championship, the first time in the history of Wisconsin wrestling that a wrestling coach had State Championship teams at two different high schools. Lehrke’s D.C. Everest teams also claimed Wisconsin State Championships in 1982 and 1986. In his first seven years at D.C. Everest, Fred compiled a record of 60-24, producing a win-loss record of 153-59-1 going into the 1980-81 season. Fred was named Wisconsin Wrestling Coach of the Year in in 1978 and 1986.
His impact continued post-retirement, with his son, Eric, assuming coaching responsibilities. Remarkably, for 46 years, a Lehrke remained at the helm of the D.C. Everest wrestling program. The annual ‘Fred Lehrke Invitational’ remains a testament to Lehrke’s enduring legacy, perpetually honoring his dedication and contributions.
Lehrke’s death drew heartfelt tributes, illustrating his profound impact beyond the realm of wrestling. His influence as a mentor and guiding figure was recognized by DC Everest Athletics, emphasizing his role in shaping individuals beyond the sport.
With a career rooted in educational institutions like Oregon High School, Kettle Moraine High School, and Monroe High School, Lehrke’s coaching brilliance shone through, manifesting in championship wins and remarkable records, including leading teams to conference championships within brief periods.
DC Everest Athletics, a social media sports page, paid tribute to his coach, stated,
“Almost a year ago, we honored the Lehrke family by naming our wrestling loft – The Lehrke Wrestling Room. Sadly the patriarch of the Lehrke family, Coach Fred Lehrke has passed away. Grateful that Coach was in the gym last January to witness the unveiling. His mark on the wrestling program at D.C. Everest will forever be felt as each wrestler climbs the stairs on their way to practice. RIP Coach, thanks for all your years working with the athletes at D.C. Everest.”
Almost a year ago, we honored the Lehrke family by naming our wrestling loft – The Lehrke Wrestling Room. Sadly the patriarch of the Lehrke family, Coach Fred Lehrke has passed away. Grateful that Coach was in the gym last January to witness the unveiling. pic.twitter.com/1XrOtWn37B
— D.C. Everest Athletics (@DCEathletics) December 5, 2023
Beyond his coaching accolades, Lehrke’s commitment to wrestling extended to his leadership roles within the Wisconsin Wrestling Federation and USA Wrestling. His contributions were recognized through prestigious awards and inductions into wrestling halls of fame, honoring his lifetime dedication to the sport.
Fred Lehrke’s impact transcended statistics; he was a mentor, a leader, and a pioneer whose influence on Wisconsin wrestling and the lives he touched will continue to resonate for generations to come.
