A bronze statue of Dave Keilitz will soon stand on the campus of Central Michigan University, a tribute that reflects decades of influence on the Chippewas baseball program and the broader community.
Remembering a Coach and Administrator
Keilitz, who died on July 15, 2026 at the age of 83, guided the Chippewas from 1971 to 1985, compiling a 456‑203 record, four Mid‑American Conference championships and six NCAA tournament appearances. He later served as the university’s Director of Athletics until 1994 before taking the helm of the American Baseball Coaches Association, where he led the organization for two decades and earned a place in its Hall of Fame in 1989.
The memorial effort began with a fundraiser initiated by former players and friends, who contributed generously to the Keilitz Memorial Statue Fund. Lead gifts from alumni, combined with a major pledge from the Executive Board of the ABCA, have brought the project to fruition.
Renowned sculptor J. Brett Grill has been selected to create the work, which will capture Keilitz’s enduring impact on the sport and on the lives of those he coached.
Jordan Bischel, now a coach at the University of Cincinnati and formerly a CMU head coach, praised the statue as a fitting tribute to Keilitz’s positive influence on CMU baseball and the community at large.
Beyond the statue, any surplus funds will be directed to the Dave & Sue Keilitz Family Endowment, establishing a lasting financial resource for the university’s baseball program.
A Community United
Over 20 former players from Keilitz’s era attended his celebration of life, underscoring the deep connections he forged throughout his career. Their contributions, along with those of alumni and supporters, illustrate a shared commitment to honoring his legacy.
The statue will be installed on the CMU campus later this year, serving as a permanent reminder of a man whose dedication shaped generations of student‑athletes.