Over the next eleven years he was credited with implementing the modern-day instant replay system and officials training program. But as his oldest son Mike put it, his dad had a unique perspective: He had one eye on the game, one eye on the officials., Indeed, Seeman refereed National Football League games for 16 years before becoming the NFLs senior director of officiating in 1991, a position he held for a decade. He then moved on to teach and coach basketball at Whitehall High School in Whitehall, Wisc. Most importantly, he was a fine gentleman. Seeman retired as senior director of officiating in 2001. I am sorry to hear of your loss. I was probably 7 or 8 when I nicknamed him "Smiley Ref" and that name stuck for my dad and I over the years. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement that Seeman "modernized and improved" the league's officiating during his tenure as director. He went on to work small college football in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and the North Central Conference. Memorials preferred to St. Philip's Church, Winona State University, Allina Hospice or donor's choice, kozlakradulovich.com "A Celebration of Life" 763-783-1100. Survived by loving wife: Marilyn, sons: Mike (Jan), Jon (Cathy) and Jeff (Colleen), grandchildren: Chris (Amy), Jayme (Jason), Tony (Megan), Tami and Kyle, three great-grandchildren twins: Everly and Brittyn and Deklan, and brother: Bob (Ardith). BLAINE, Minn. -- Former NFL supervisor of officials Jerry Seeman, who worked as the chief referee in two Super Bowls, has died after a long bout with cancer at age 77. Conference Championship photo gallery, 2019 post-season, 4 officiating observations from Conference Championship Weekend, 2019 NFC Championship liveblog: Packers at 49ers, 5 observations from the divisional playoffs, 2019 post-season, Divisional playoffs 2019 post season photo album, 2019 NFC Divisional Playoffs liveblog: Seahawks at Packers, 2019 AFC Divisional Playoffs liveblog: Texans at Chiefs, 4 Wild Card observations, 2019 post-season, 2019 NFC Wild Card liveblog: Seahawks at Eagles, 2019 NFC Wild Card liveblog: Vikings at Saints, Special rules in place for the 2020 Pro Bowl, Craig Wrolstad is the referee for the 2020 Pro Bowl, 6 Super Bowl LIV officiating odds and ends. I met Jerry and several of his wonderful family when he and my Dad were both down at the Mayo having kidney surgery. Jerry Seeman - Wikipedia It was his passion.. Love, Jenny Riley. He was an excellent teacher, coach, and counselor. Mr. Seeman died Sunday at his home in Blaine, Minn., league spokesman Greg Aiello confirmed Monday. Honors include the Winona State Hall of Fame, NFHS Hall of Fame, MSHSL Hall Fame, Sports Officials Medallion Award, Distinguished Alumnus Award Winona State University and NFFMN Legends Award. Visitation at ST. PHILIP'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 6180 Highway #65 Tuesday from 5 to 8 PM. That program was designed to improve communication and understanding between the two sides. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family. I feel bad I didn't know about this when it happened. My deepest sympathy to the family of Coach Seeman. Prepare a personalized obituary for someone you loved.. February 23, 1948 - Jerry T. Seeman, age 77, of Blaine. As a teacher I shared my knowledge of sports with my students. Carl resided and raised his beautiful family in Copley. Sympathies to the family of this great man.