Bill Van Leeuwen, a standout defensive lineman during some of the most successful years of the coach Don Coryell era at San Diego State, passed away June 10 in Wickenburg, Arizona.
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Van Leeuwen, 66, was an undersized, cat-quick tackle in a 4-3 defensive alignment on the 1968 and ’69 Aztec teams that posted a combined record of 20-0-1.
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Van Leeuwen concluded his four-season collegiate career having never been in a losing game.
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A graduate of Anaheim Loara High, Van Leeuwen was a standout on Fullerton College squads in 1966 and ’67 that  were 21-0-1.
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For the last seven years, “Coach Van,” as he was known, was a volunteer assistant coach for the Wickenburg High Wranglers.
“He was one of a handful of Division I defensive tackles that played at 205 pounds,” said teammate Del Pifer. Â “Small man, big heart.”
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“Bill Van Leeuwen was a great friend and teammate,” said Fred Dryer, who played defensive end on the ’68-69Â teams before going on to a 14-year career in the NFL. Â “He was an inspiration to me and to his many friends. Â It truly is a sad day.”
No services were held. Â A memorial is planned.
Billy, So many awesome memories. Thanks for sharing these years my Bro, my Best Man….my Confidant. I will love you for all my life R.I.P.
Bill was a great friend and colleague for many years . He will be missed by all.. RIP ” Van Hack”
Nicely put, Dan.