NIU is remembering the life of Francis Stroup, a retired NIU employee who passed away at age 101 on Wednesday.

Stroup was a former men’s swimming coach and was the lyricist of the Huskie Fight Song.

“It’s a big blow to NIU,” said Connie Fox, associate dean of the College of Education.

Stroup worked at NIU from 1959 to 1974, but remained close to NIU until his death.

“He was a tremendous NIU supporter for a long, long time,” Fox said.

Fox said she saw Stroup as recently as his 100th birthday.

Stroup was a physical education professor, and Fox said he remained close to the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education throughout the years.

“He was a valuable member of the community,” she said.