photo by: Submitted photo

A tree memorializing Adam Leitel, a former instructor and coach at Free State High School, was planted outside the football stadium last weekend at Free State High School.

A tree memorializing Adam Leitel, a former Free State educator and coach who died unexpectedly in February, was planted on the south end of the football stadium at Free State High School last weekend.

The memorial was organized by several parents and Free State track coach Jordan Rose, and they got got quick approval from the school district to plant the tree at the entrance to the home stands.

“We’re excited to have a spot to remember him and be present,” Rose said. The tree, an autumn blaze maple, was donated by the Earl May Garden Center in Lawrence.

Leitel, who taught social studies and history at Free State, also served as an assistant coach for the track and tennis teams alongside Rose and head tennis coach Aaron Clark. A North Dakota native, Leitel attended the University of Kansas and Pace University before arriving at the Lawrence school district in 2012.

photo by: Contributed

Adam Leitel is pictured with Free State High School tennis players.