Tulsa World: My father, my hero: TU player talks of his dad's influence

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My father, my hero: TU player talks of his dad's influence

TU linebacker Mike Bryan (right), says of his father, former OU All-American Rick Bryan: "My dad was my hero and I base my life on him." STEPHEN HOLMAN / Tulsa World file

By JIMMIE TRAMEL & ERIC BAILEY World Sports Writers
Published: 7/27/2009 2:28 AM
Last Modified: 7/31/2009 3:09 PM

Rick Bryan, a former University of Oklahoma football All-American and the father of University of Tulsa linebacker Mike Bryan, died Saturday night.

"My dad was my hero and I base my life on him," Mike Bryan said Sunday. "I try to be like him and live like him. He has made me who I am today."

TU head football coach Todd Graham issued a statement after learning of Rick Bryan's death.

Said Graham, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Rick Bryan. Our hearts ache for Mike and his family in this time of sorrow, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them.

Rick was a tremendous person, father, competitor and more recently a fan of Tulsa football. We have lost a member of our Tulsa football family."

Mike Bryan indicated his father had a heart attack at 10:30 p.m. Saturday while in his recliner at home. Mike said his father has been taking medication for heart trouble and hadn't been feeling well lately.

Mike said Saturday was a routine day for his father. He said he and his father had lunch and worked on the farm. They went to check the cows, which is not something they would normally do this time of year, but Mike is glad they did it because it allowed them to spend more time together.

Mike said it is a tough time for the Bryan family, but they are trying to stay strong. Many people visited the Bryan's home Sunday, including former OU coaches Barry Switzer, Merv Johnson and Charley North. They brought highlight videos for the family to watch.

Also, Rick Bryan went to Norman a few weeks ago and autographed a football helmet signifying his All-America seasons in 1982 and 1983. The helmet was given to the Bryan family on Sunday.

Jimmie Tramel 581-8389

jimmie.tramel@tulsaworld.com

Eric Bailey 581-8391
eric.bailey@tulsaworld.com

By JIMMIE TRAMEL & ERIC BAILEY World Sports Writers

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	Report Comment KYCane, Crestwood (8/3/2009 12:34:38 PM) Here's another TU alum and fan praying for you and your family.
	Report Comment KYCane, Crestwood (8/3/2009 12:35:33 PM) Here's another TU alum and fan living in Louisville praying for you and your family, Mike.

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