Jim Karsatos, who began at quarterback for Ohio State within the mid-Eighties, has died on the age of 61.
His physique was found in his San Diego residence final Saturday by his good friend, former OSU roommate and Sigma Chi fraternity brother Velemir “Willy” Cicin, who owns the residence advanced. Cicin stated Karsatos had coronary heart points and that the medical expert decided Karsatos died of pure causes.
Karsatos performed for Ohio State from 1983-86. He was a backup to Mike Tomczak his first two seasons earlier than turning into a starter in 1985.
He led the Buckeyes to a 9-3 document that yr beneath Earle Bruce, together with a 22-13 upset of No. 1 Iowa. Karsatos threw for two,115 yards with 19 landing passes.
In 1986, he threw for 1,927 yards and 13 touchdowns in one other 9-3 season. He was one of many staff’s two captains.
The Miami Dolphins drafted Karsatos within the twelfth spherical of the 1987 NFL draft. He spent two years with Miami as a backup to Corridor of Famer Dan Marino however didn’t take any snaps.
He grew to become a monetary advisor in Columbus and for a few years was a radio analyst for Ohio State soccer video games.
“I all the time loved taking part in and dealing with Jim,” stated former Ohio State offensive lineman and present radio analyst Jim Lachey. “We have been teammates at OSU and labored collectively on the radio community. He was a good friend who was enjoyable to work with, particularly throughout the 2002 nationwide championship season.”
A Fullerton, California, native, Karsatos had been residing in San Diego since 2022, Cicin stated.
“He was an important man,” stated Bob Maggs, who was Karsatos’ middle at OSU. “He would lighten moments. His temperament was good for what we did. He was such an excellent man on and off the sphere.
“You consider Jim and he was all the time smiling, all the time having an excellent time. Within the hardest video games and most crucial conditions, he was not a man who would ever lose his head. He saved everyone else comfortable, too.
“He was an important good friend. He was a kind of folks that you simply say, ‘He by no means met a stranger.’ “
Cicin stated Karsatos made pals shortly in his San Diego neighborhood.
“He was Mr. Character, ‘Large Jim the soccer participant,’ ” he stated. “He was beloved by all of us out right here. It is heartbreaking.”
Cicin stated Karsatos and their circle of pals watched Ohio State video games collectively, even flying an OSU flag.
Cicin stated. Karsatos was “tremendous excited” watching the Buckeyes’ nationwide championship victory over Notre Dame on Jan. 20.
A public celebration of life honoring Karsatos will likely be held from 5-9 p.m. Sunday at Park Road Tavern in Columbus. These attending are requested to put on OSU clothes.
Cicin stated Karsatos’ sister Kelly is organizing a memorial subsequent month in Fullerton.
Get extra Ohio State soccer information by listening to our podcasts.
This text initially appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Jim Karsatos, former Ohio State soccer participant, has died at age 61
