Bob Karmelowicz, who was a defensive line coach with the Kansas City Chiefs from 1997-2005 died Saturday, following a battle with sinus cancer. He was 60.  During an 18 year career in the NFL, Karmelowicz worked with the defensive line for five NFL teams: Detroit Lions (2009), Houston Texans (2006-08), Kansas City Chiefs (1997-05), Washington Redskins (1994-96) and Cincinnati Bengals (1992-93).

While with the Chiefs, Karmelowicz was the defensive line coach and worked with Defensive Coordinator Gunther Cunningham. “I’ve had the privilege of coaching with and against ‘Karm’ for a long time and he was one tough guy,” said Cunningham. “Though his coaching success on the field speaks for itself, I will always remember him for how much he loved kids, his compassion for helping kids and how much he cared for his grandkids. That will always be his lasting impression on me.”

Karmelowicz is given a lot of credit with helping develop Pro Bowl DE Jared Allen who was a fourth round draft pick from Idaho State. Allen had 20 sacks in his first two NFL seasons with the Chiefs while working with Karmelowicz.

Karmelowicz is survived by his wife, Olga, daughters, Liz and Marissa, and son, Dave.