William J. Falk, 91

NARRAGANSETT, R.I. – William “Bill” J. Falk died Sept. 7. He was the husband of the late Grace (Duchin) Falk. Born in Providence, a son of the late David and Lena (Feinstein) Falk, he lived in Narragansett for 34 years, previously living in Cranston. 

A 1949 graduate of Brown University, Bill earned a master’s degree in education from Columbia University. As a passionate track and field coach, he became nationally known for his expertise in the pole vault, guiding athletes to great heights both figuratively and literally, first at the high school level, and then during long tenures at both the University of Rhode Island and the University of Miami. He was selected to coach Olympic hopefuls by the U.S. Olympic Committee. Along the way, he received numerous coaching awards including induction into the URI Athletic Hall of Fame, R.I. Track Coaches Hall of Fame and was a five-time New England Coach of the Year. 

Bill’s other passion was business. He and his late wife, Grace, founded M-F Athletic Company in 1960 and he continued to be an important figure in the business until his recent decline in health. 

He was the father of Martha Falk of Cranston and Eric Falk and his wife, Dana, of Providence. He was the grandfather of Rachel, Audrey and Leah. 

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Summertime Fund, c/o RI Foundation, 

One Union Station, Providence, RI 02903