Tributes to OSU Coaches

Memorials and comments about Coaches Budke and Serna are coming into the newsroom, here's a few of the comments we've gotten:

"As with all Oklahomans we were deeply saddened to learn of Thursday's fatal plane crash. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of former State Senator Olin Branstetter and his wife Paula as well as the families of coach Kurt Budke and assistant coach Miranda Serna.  It is heartbreaking to see the Oklahoma State University family again suffer tragedy-and for the second time in a week, the Senate family is grieving the loss of a fine public servant from the Ponca City community. We ask all Oklahomans to join with us in prayers for strength and healing for all those mourning these losses." - Senate President Pro Tempore Bingman

"It is a tragic loss for the basketball community. Having known Kurt Budke and Miranda Serna for a number of years, it makes me realize how short life is and to not take anything for granted. My heart goes out to their families and the OSU community." - Tulsa Head Coach Matilda Mossman

"I am devastated by the tragic news of the deaths of Kurt and Miranda. Kurt was a fantastic basketball coach and he was a tremendous competitor. More importantly, though, he was a devoted father and husband, and a humble but courageous leader of young people. Our hearts and prayers go out to Kurt's wife, Shelley, and their children, and to Miranda's family, and the families of the other victims as well. Additionally, we are praying for the entire Oklahoma State women's basketball family."-University of Oklahoma Head Women's Basketball Coach Sherri Coale

"We want everyone at OSU to know that they have our prayers and support. Like them, we fail in finding the words that adequately capture our feelings. We feel devastated for the families that have been impacted, the Cowgirl basketball team, the athletics department and the entire university community. We share in your grief and sadness."-University of Oklahoma Head Football Coach Bob Stoops

"This is a sad day for the OSU Cowboy nation. I'm stunned and saddened that another tragedy has hit our basketball program.  My heart goes out to so many... Kurt Budke's and Miranda Serna's families as well as the members of the OSU Women's Basketball team who have been touched by their passionate commitment to sportsmanship, competition and unwavering focus on responsibility.  I grew to know and respect Coach Budke during his 7-year coaching history at OSU. His star burned bright and his loss will sadden yet strengthen the University for generations to come. - Boone Pickens

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy that took the life of Oklahoma State University women’s basketball coach Kurt Budke and assistant Miranda Serna and all the others on the plane last night. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the individuals and the entire Oklahoma State family.” - Steve Swetoha, Tulsa Shock President