|
Former Commodore All-American Tackle Bob Werckle Passes Away 8/25/2005 LEBANON, Tenn. – Bob Werckle, an All-American offensive tackle at Vanderbilt in 1951, passed away suddenly Thursday in Lebanon. In 1999, Werckle became the sixth Commodore football player recognized as a Southeastern Conference legend by the league office. He is one of 33 All-Americans in the history of Vanderbilt football. A native of New Jersey, Werckle overcame leg injuries to become one of the finest Commodore linemen of all-time. In 1949, Werckle was given little chance to succeed after twice breaking a leg in practice. By 1950, the injury jinx was beaten, with Werckle playing the most minutes of any Commodore. He became known throughout the South for his blocking and tackling abilities. In 1951, the stellar lineman earned All-SEC recognition and served as team captain before the Associated Press and INS voted him a Second Team All-American. After graduating Werckle played in the North-South Shrine Game and Senior Bowl. He also earned distinction as a Marine Corps officer in the Korean War. Werckle, a resident of Lebanon, Tenn., remained a Commodore supporter throughout his life and went to home and away contests whenever he could. A visitation will be held Friday at Sellers Funeral Home in Lebanon. The funeral will take place Saturday. |
