The Downingtown community honored Howard Reinard, a beloved retired teacher and football official who died of COVID-19, in an emotional tribute during a high school football game, writes Dave Kinchen for FOX 29.

Reinard, 78, graduated from Downingtown High School in 1960 and taught at several schools in the district. Rivals at the recent game between Downingtown East and Downingtown West stood as one to recognize and mourn one of their own.

“It is just so overwhelmingly special to all of us,” said his daughter, Kim Reinard-Immersi.

Reinard loved officiating local football games, which was one of his passions — along with his devotion to community and family.

“He was the kindest, most gentlest soul that you could meet and everyone just loved him, and he made just such an impact to everyone he met,” said Reinard-Immersi.

His extended family of referees is also feeling his loss profoundly.

“Howie and I had a lot, over 40 years, of officiating together,” said football referee Joseph Jackson. “He was a great man, a great father, husband, grandfather. He was a great football official.”

Reinard and his wife Kelly were diagnosed with COVID-19 earlier this month. Both were fully vaccinated.

The family has started a GoFundMe page to help cover medical bills.

Read more about Howard Reinard at FOX 29.