Ben Mourer Obituary – Tragic Accident in Meadville, Pennsylvania
Meadville, PA – The Allegheny College community and the broader world of collegiate athletics are reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Ben Mourer, head coach of the college’s cross country and track & field programs. Mourer, a deeply respected leader, mentor, and alumnus of Allegheny College, tragically passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025, following a devastating tree-related accident at his home.
Ben Mourer, 42, was not just a coach — he was a pillar of strength, a role model, and a source of boundless encouragement and integrity for generations of student-athletes. His death has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, athletes, and the entire Allegheny College community.
A Life Devoted to Athletics and Service
A proud alumnus of Allegheny College (Class of 2002), Ben was a standout runner in his own right during his undergraduate years. His passion for distance running, combined with a tireless work ethic and a natural gift for mentorship, led him back to his alma mater to shape and guide the next generation of student-athletes.
Ben returned to Allegheny as head coach in 2019 after several years coaching at the high school and collegiate levels. Under his leadership, the Gators’ cross country and track & field teams flourished—earning accolades, setting personal and school records, and, more importantly, building a family of runners rooted in support, grit, and mutual respect. He was widely admired not only for his tactical knowledge of the sport but for his deep care for each athlete, on and off the course.
“He made you believe in yourself,” said one former athlete. “He saw your potential before you did—and never let you settle for anything less than your best.”
The Tragic Incident
According to local authorities, Mourer was working on his property in Meadville when the accident occurred. While assisting with tree removal on his land, a sudden and unforeseen incident involving a falling tree resulted in fatal injuries. Despite the immediate efforts of emergency responders, Ben was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident is being considered a tragic and unforeseen event, and no foul play is suspected.
The news of Ben’s death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit college town. Vigils were held on campus Sunday evening, where students, athletes, and community members gathered to honor his life and share stories of the countless ways he impacted them.
Remembering Coach Mourer
Athletic Director Bill Ross shared a moving tribute on behalf of the college:
“Ben Mourer was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a motivator, a friend, and a shining example of what it means to live with passion and purpose. His loss is immeasurable. We extend our deepest sympathies to Ben’s family and to the hundreds of lives he touched during his remarkable life.”
Ben is survived by his loving wife, two young children, his parents, and extended family. Known for his humility, gentle spirit, and boundless devotion to his athletes and family, his passing leaves a void that will be impossible to fill.
In the wake of the tragedy, Allegheny College has made counseling and grief support services available to all students and staff. Plans are underway for a campus memorial service to celebrate Coach Mourer’s legacy, and the athletic department is considering ways to honor him in perpetuity—through scholarships, renaming meets, or a permanent memorial on campus.
A Legacy That Endures
Ben Mourer’s legacy is one of compassion, drive, and quiet excellence. He shaped not just runners, but resilient, kind, and thoughtful individuals. His voice may no longer echo across the fields and trails of Meadville, but the values he instilled will endure in every life he touched.
As the Allegheny College community mourns, they also give thanks—for the years, the races, the early morning practices, the finish-line cheers, and the immeasurable heart that Coach Ben Mourer brought to everything he did.
He ran his race with grace and purpose. May he rest in peace.
