Veteran Youth Sports Coach Michael “Slim” Slimmer Dies at Age 71, Leaving a Legacy in Pennsylvania Athletics
A true leader on and off the court.
October 31, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 31, 2026
The Falls Creek and DuBois communities are mourning the loss of Michael “Slim” Harold Slimmer, who passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2026, at Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital. He was 71 years old.
Known for his dedication to family, love for sports, and lifelong commitment to youth coaching, Slimmer leaves behind a legacy defined by kindness, humor, and service.
Born on August 5, 1954, in DuBois, Pennsylvania, Michael was the son of the late Harold and Margaret (Gresock) Slimmer.
He grew up in Sykesville and spent most of his life in DuBois and Falls Creek, where he became an enduring figure both on and off the court.
Michael married his high school sweetheart, Karen Jones, on October 26, 1974, at Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in Sykesville.
The couple recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary—a milestone reflecting a lifetime of love, partnership, and devotion.
Together, they built a strong and loving family, raising two children, Amy (Brent) Smith and Chad (Yonnie) Slimmer.
He also cherished his five grandchildren—Madison, Taylor, Brock, Abby, and Issie—who brought him immense pride and joy. His sister, Kathryn “Kitty” Bogacki, also survives him.
Slimmer proudly retired after 30 years at Penn Traffic–Riverside Warehouse.
Never one to sit still, he later operated a landscaping and fishing bait business, combining his love for the outdoors with his entrepreneurial spirit.
He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing and found peace in nature throughout his life.
A natural mentor, Slimmer dedicated more than 35 years to coaching youth sports, shaping young athletes across the region.
He began coaching his children in the elementary program at Juniata and continued serving at the YMCA, junior high, high school, and even college level.
His most cherished coaching role came with the Brockway girls varsity basketball team, where he became known not only as a coach but as a friend and role model.
His playful humor, big personality, and caring leadership earned him the affectionate title “Coach Slim,” and he never missed a chance to joke with his players.
Slimmer supported his favorite teams—the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Los Angeles Lakers—but nothing brought him more joy than watching his grandchildren compete in their own sports.
Known as the life of every gathering, he never met a stranger and built lasting friendships everywhere he went.
At his request, there will be no public viewing. A memorial service will take place on Thursday, November 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in Sykesville, Pennsylvania.
In honor of Michael’s lifelong dedication to youth and athletics, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the DuBois YMCA or the DuBois Little League.
Michael “Slim” Slimmer’s death leaves a void in the hearts of those who love him, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched—with laughter, mentorship, and unwavering kindness.
His memory will continue to inspire young athletes, dedicated families, and a community he served with pride and love.
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