Orange County Football And Baseball Coach Mike Dodd Passed Away One Year After His Wife
Mike Dodd's spouse, Cathy Yohan, was a dedicated educator before her untimely death.
June 24, 2026
Updated on June 24, 2026 by Aditi Rai
Remembering a cherished mentor: Mike Dodd, a three-decade sports figure in Orange County, departed on June 17, 2026, at 72 years old.
His sibling, Daniel Dodd, revealed that Mike succumbed to mesothelioma complications.
Survived by three offspring and five grandchildren, Mike also leaves behind his brother Daniel, sister Julie, and brother-in-law Ed Laird.
With nearly three decades of dedication, Mike shaped countless young talents in Orange County. Originating from Westminster, California, he shone in both baseball and football at Westminster High School.
His athletic prowess earned him a spot at Golden West College, leading to a 1973 MLB draft by Minnesota Twins in the 16th round.
Post-professional, Dodd embraced education, acquiring a teaching certificate at Long Beach State and embarking on a lasting career in coaching and instruction.
From 1982 to 2000, he coached Huntington Beach High School baseball. He also supported football as an assistant and briefly acted as interim head coach in 1996.
In 2000, Dodd joined Orange Coast College as an assistant football coach, followed by a head coaching role at Marina High School until 2006.
Beyond athletics, his commitment to education continued at Huntington Beach and Marina High Schools.
Mike Dodd's Wife, Cathy, Preceded Him In Death
Mike Dodd's journey concluded shortly after his wife Cathy Yohan, marking a poignant moment for their loved ones.
The couple, united since youth, raised three children together—Philip, Erin, and Amy—and were proud grandparents to five grandchildren.
Mike Dodd and Cathy Yohan raised three children and became grandparents to five grandchildren.The couple’s daughter is happily married with three daughters of her own.
Ed Laird, a close friend, expressed profound loss, noting Mike’s role as a mentor and community pillar.
Friend and colleague Dalise Lindsay Falkenstein reflected on their friendship, celebrating Mike’s legacy and expressing gratitude for shared moments.
A memorial service is being organized for later this summer by Mike’s brother Daniel.
Our thoughts are with Mike’s family, friends, and the wider community during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Mike Dodd.
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