USU’s ‘Night Runner’ Passes Away
Dec 21, 2018, 4:50 PM | Updated: Dec 22, 2018, 4:57 pm
Courtesy of USU Athletics
LOGAN, Utah – The Utah State superfan and assistant equipment manager Steve Wiley, known as the “Night Runner,” passed away at the age of 67 on Friday.
Recently chronicled in an article by ESPN, Wiley was known and beloved by the Utah State football community and was considered an important member of the team.
Steve Wiley’s legacy and influence will forever be etched in Aggie Athletics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
➡️ https://t.co/lYiSNAJBHK pic.twitter.com/5tzBqxqCAb
— USU Football (@USUFootball) December 21, 2018
“The Utah State athletics family is shocked and saddened at the passing of Steve Wiley,” Utah State athletic director John Hartwell said in a statement. “He has been a positive fixture of Aggie football and Aggie athletics for many years. Steve’s legacy and influence will forever be etched into Aggie athletics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
Starting with a trip to New Mexico State in October 1995, Wiley volunteered his time and personal vehicles to transport the team’s equipment to games from then until 2013.
Upon retirement from his career as a machinist, Wiley then spent the last six or so years as the Aggies’ assistant equipment manager.
Heaven gained the Aggie Guardian Angel, our beloved friend Steve “Night Runner” Wiley today… To say he will be missed is an understatement. Postgame won’t be the same w/out a hug from you Pops! Our hearts are broken here but we know he is back w/ his beloved wife & his God. 💙 pic.twitter.com/T0l1FNF4ff
— Zach Nyborg (@znyborg) December 21, 2018
A Bronze Star Medal recipient for his valor in the Vietnam War, Wiley was also responsible for handing the American flag to a player who would have the honor of carrying it onto the field.
Wiley was preceded in death by his wife, Rhonda, who passed away in 2007.
Information from KSL.com contributed to this report.
