The community of Hobart, Indiana, is mourning the passing of Coach Tom Kerr, a legendary football coach, mentor, and longtime community figure who died peacefully at his home on September 1, 2026, at the age of 87, following a three-year battle with throat cancer.

Kerr leaves behind a remarkable legacy that extends far beyond the football field. For generations of Hobart athletes, he was more than a coach. He was a mentor, teacher, role model, and trusted presence who helped shape young people both as competitors and as individuals.

Tom Kerr’s connection to Hobart High School began long before his coaching career. A 1957 graduate, he excelled as a student-athlete in football, basketball, and baseball before receiving a football scholarship to the University of Michigan. He lettered in football in 1960 and ultimately chose to pursue a master’s degree and coaching career rather than return for a fifth year at Michigan.

His coaching career at Hobart became legendary. After coaching at University High School in Ann Arbor and Hobart Junior High School, Kerr became Hobart High School’s defensive coordinator in 1966, a position he held through 1997. During those 34 years, the Brickies recorded more than 300 victories and captured four state championships in 1987, 1989, 1991, and 1993. His teams also produced numerous regional, sectional, conference, and state runner-up accomplishments.

Kerr’s influence was reflected in the players and coaches who continued to speak about him long after their playing days ended. Former assistants and players remembered his consistency, toughness, encouragement, and commitment to developing young men. His impact was so deeply woven into Hobart football that his name became synonymous with the program’s tradition of excellence.

In August 2025, St. Bridget Parish honored Kerr with the inaugural Tom Kerr Award, recognizing his lifetime of contributions to faith, family, team, and community. Even while battling cancer, he remained connected to Hobart football, attending practices when possible and offering advice and encouragement to players and coaches.

The Indiana Football Coaches Association inducted Kerr into its Hall of Fame in 1996, further recognizing a career that included 17 Duneland Conference championships, 16 regional championships, 19 consecutive sectional championships, and numerous other achievements.

Following news of his death, tributes have begun reflecting the depth of his influence. The Hobart High School Alumni Association described him as a legendary coach and shared an emotional tribute from longtime sportscaster and former student Paul Condry, who remembered Kerr as a mentor and hero who made a lasting difference in his life.

Tom Kerr’s legacy will therefore not be measured solely by championships, winning streaks, or records. It will also be remembered through the countless athletes he encouraged, the coaches he influenced, and the families and community members who knew him personally.

His passing marks the loss of one of Hobart’s most recognizable and respected football figures. For generations of Brickies, however, the lessons he taught and the standard he established will continue to live on through the program and the people whose lives he helped shape.