Former Bellevue School District track/cross country coach Cliff Nixon passed away on Jan. 22.

Nixon, who began his coaching career with the Bellevue Wolverines track/cross country programs in 1959, was inducted into the Washington State Track and Field and Cross Country Hall of Fame in 1999. Nixon coached at Tyee Junior High School, Interlake High School, Bellevue High School, Newport High School and Mercer Island High School spanning six decades during his coaching tenure.

A celebration of life for Nixon will take place from 2-6 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Newport High School Performing Arts Center. The event will include a pictorial presentation and an open mic opportunity for people to share their stories about what coach Nixon meant to them. At 4:30 p.m., there will be a walking lap of honor around the Newport High School track. At the conclusion of the lap, attendees will receive a popsicle (one of Nixon’s well known traditions). Following the lap around the track, there will be a reception in the Newport High School cafeteria.