The University of Memphis Athletic Department lost an athletic trainer and administrator who served the University for more than 40 years.
Edwin Douglas "Eddie" Cantler died in his sleep on Wednesday night at the age of 61. Cantler earned his undergraduate degree from the U of M in 1974 after working as a student-trainer since the fall of 1970.
Cantler's work ethic and commitment to student-athletes endeared him to people throughout the Athletic Department.
"He took on every task as if it were the most important of his career, and the care he gave our athletes was beyond reproach," U of M Athletic Director Tom Bowen said in a release. "Ed saw every assignment through to completion no matter how lengthy the assignment. He was dedicated, devote and compassionate, a true Tiger until the end. Ed will be greatly missed."
Immediately following his graduation, Cantler became a full-time assistant trainer at the U of M. He held that post until his boss, A. Eugene "Doc" Smith, died in 1980. The University promoted Cantler to full-time head athletic trainer, making him the second person in the school's history to hold the title.
Cantler, a mainstay at the University through the '80s and '90s, left his post as head trainer in the spring of 2004 to be named assistant athletic director for Support Services. There, he managed the strength staff, trainers and managers. He also helped organize various tournaments and events staged by the U of M.
Blake Butler, an offensive lineman for the Tigers football team from 2002 to 2006, was saddened to hear of Cantler's passing. Butler said Cantler could really get onto players that messed up, but he knew Cantler truly cared for people around the University.
Butler shared a story from his freshman season at the U of M. He broke his hand, and the cast was beginning to smell and annoy Butler. He wanted to take the cast off, but Cantler refused. Butler took matters into his own hands and removed the cast himself. When he showed up the next day, Cantler promptly "chewed him out." However, Cantler removed Butler's cast each week and made him a new one until his hand healed.
Butler said former Tigers are full of stories similar to his.
"Even in his most furious moments, you knew he cared about you, the Tigers and loved his job," Butler said. "There are many Eddie Cantler stories, and he was one of the good guys at Memphis. He will be missed."
Cantler, a familiar face around the Billy J. Murphy Athletic Complex, is survived by his wife Jenina, who taught math at the U of M; two sons, Andy, 25, and Michael, 24; and two granddaughters, Harlee and Zadie.
The Bowling Green, Ky., native spent his final 12 years directing the music ministries at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
A wake for Cantler will be on Monday at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception from 5 to 7 p.m. The funeral mass will be held at the same place on Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Bowen said the whole department will miss their close friend.
"The entire University and Athletic Department family is deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and fellow staff member Ed Cantler," Bowen said. "Ed dedicated his life to his family, the University and the health and betterment of our student-athletes and staff."
