Bergen Catholic Athletic Director Jack McGovern Remembered

ORADELL, NJ — Jack McGovern, one of the greatest Crusaders in Bergen Catholic High School history, and remembered as such following his death Friday.

Bergen Catholic wrestling coach Dave Bell said it was "an honor" to McGovern and that he was a man of "great integrity, humility, and compassion," NorthJersey.com reported. "

McGovern led the Bergen Catholic athletic department for more than 10 years, according to the NorthJersey.com report. He had been away from the all-boys school for several months before he died.

"He was always a great friend, a very patient listener. He was truly just such a good person. There is no way I can emphasize that enough," Bergen Catholic Associate Athletic Director Joe Haemmerle told NJ.com. "He led that department so much by example of what Bergen Catholic was all about, and what we were trying to achieve."

Bergen Catholic released a statement following McGovern's death.

"The entire Bergen Catholic family mourns the loss of one of our greatest Crusaders, Jack McGovern, '76," the school said. "Our love, prayers, and support go out to the McGovern family."

People expressed their sympathies on social media after the school announced McGovern's death.

"We are so sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. What a tremendous loss to all who loved him as well as the entire Bergen Catholic family," Laurie Alfano-Cristaldi posted on Facebook. "Our prayers and condolences to Mrs. McGovern and the entire McGovern family. May Jack RIP."

"My condolences to Theresa and the rest of the family. I am deeply saddened. It is such a shame to lose such an awesome person," Stephen Gonzalez said. "Jack, you will be missed my friend and glad, honored and privileged to work with you and the Bergen Catholic family. Rest In Peace my friend!!!!"

Sharon Barber said McGovern, "touched so many young men’s lives in such positive ways at Bergen! Prayers to Anne and their children and the whole McGovern beautiful family."

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com