Coach John Kileen was Carson High School’s wrestling coach from 1976 through 1979. Coach’s teams had a 37-6 overall record while he was the coach. The Senator wrestlers went undefeated in League dual matches in 1977, 1978 and 1979. They also won the Northern Nevada Zone Wrestling Championships in those years. The Senator’s crowned two state champions and numerous zone champions under Coach Kileen’s leadership.
Coach Kileen was an English teacher at CHS and one of the advisors for the CHS Yearbook, “Carneta” and the school newspaper, “The Senator”.
Over the years, Coach and his wife, Teresa, made multiple trips from the Las Vegas area to Northern Nevada to attend some of the region’s biggest wrestling tournaments. Each time, he made it a point to reconnect with his former wrestlers and wrestleteers, cherishing the bonds they had built. Carson High School’s wrestling family always held a special place in his heart.
Coach is survived by his wife, Teresa of 35 Years, 3 children, Jason Kileen, Age 53; Sarah Kileen, Age 50; Michael Kileen, Age 48 and two stepchildren, Brandon Paul, Age 45; and Shannon Paul, Age 42. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren, Cameron Paul, Age 15; David Paul, Age 13; and Westley Paul, Age 6.
Coach Kileen graduated from East Bakersfield High School and attended the University of Nevada-Reno and graduated from Bakersfield College.
Coach was blessed with a quick wit and ability to make others laugh with his amusing comic sense of humor. He was an unselfish giver of the heart. He stepped up to the plate to help those in need and never expected anything in return. Coach would always say, “This is not a loan.”
Coach John Kileen’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. His dedication to his students, athletes, and community serves as an enduring example of kindness, humor, and selflessness. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.