Beloved Teacher and Coach Angelo Ross Jr. Passes Away at 86

Angelo Rafael Ross Jr., a cherished educator and coach, passed away peacefully at his home in Santa Cruz, California, on November 3, 2025. Surrounded by his loving family, Angelo’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to teaching and mentoring young athletes.

Born on September 23, 1939, in Santa Cruz, Angelo was the youngest child of Marguerite Nellie Ross and Angelo Rafael Ross Sr. His upbringing in a close-knit family instilled in him a deep sense of community and belonging. He shared a joyful childhood with his sister, Diane, and their many cousins, participating in neighborhood games and large family gatherings that became the foundation of his values.

Angelo’s academic journey began at Laurel Elementary School and continued through Mission Hill Junior High and Santa Cruz High School, where he excelled both in the classroom and on the basketball court. As a standout athlete, he earned a spot on the All-CCAL lightweight team and later the All-League varsity team, graduating in 1958 as salutatorian. Although he received a basketball scholarship to the University of California, Riverside, Angelo chose to attend San Jose State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and a secondary teaching credential, graduating with honors and joining the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society.

After college, Angelo served in the United States Army Reserves as a military policeman at Fort Gordon, Georgia. Upon returning to Santa Cruz, he began a teaching career that would span decades. From 1964 until his retirement in 1999, Angelo taught U.S. History, Civics, and Physical Education at Mission Hill Junior High School. He became known as “Mr. Ross” to generations of students, remembered for his wit, fairness, and genuine care for his pupils. Angelo not only taught academic subjects but also instilled important life values such as responsibility and perseverance.

His impact extended beyond the classroom. Angelo’s coaching career began at Holy Cross High School, where he coached football from 1964 to 1970. He later guided students at Marello Preparatory High School from 1970 to 1977, leading the varsity basketball team to significant victories, including a share of the Mission Trail Athletic League championship in 1976. He earned the title of “Co-Coach of the Year” for his outstanding contributions.

In 1977, Angelo joined Palma High School in Salinas, where he remained until 2014. During his nearly 40 years there, he and his coaching staff achieved an impressive record, securing 28 league championships and 11 CCS titles, and becoming part of California high school football history with a notable 48-game unbeaten streak. After games, the coaches often gathered to reflect on strategies and memorable plays, including the famous “Rodeo” play.

Angelo’s dedication to youth sports included coaching youth leagues for over 30 years, mentoring countless young athletes. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame at Marello Preparatory High School in 1986, followed by Palma High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000, and Santa Cruz High School’s Hall of Fame in 2018.

In July 2014, Angelo suffered a rare spinal cord stroke that left him paralyzed. Despite this life-altering event, he remained resilient, continuing to engage with his players and the sports community. He frequently reviewed game films and attended Friday night games, embodying the perseverance he taught.

Angelo’s family was central to his life. He lived in the same Santa Cruz home where he was raised, caring for his mother until her passing at the age of 103. He was particularly close to his nieces, Pamela and Stephanie, his sister Diane, and brother-in-law Fred, as well as his extended family. Angelo often credited his mother for teaching him to see the good in people, a philosophy that guided him throughout his life.

The family expresses deep gratitude to his caregiver, “Tootsie,” for her unwavering support over the past 11 years. They extend thanks to Christian Vega, Cathy, Joe, and the Escobar family for their love and assistance, as well as to Dr. Raj Singh, Dr. David Beck, and Dr. Michael Yen for their exceptional care.

Angelo is survived by his sister, Diane Marguerite Treseler; brother-in-law, Frederick Treseler; nieces Pamela Treseler Gangloff (Marvin) and Stephanie Treseler Colvin (Zach); great-nephew Michael Angelo Gangloff (Rachael); and great-great-nieces Bailey, Kallie, and Rylee Gangloff.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. on November 24, 2025, at Resurrection Church in Aptos, California, officiated by Fr. Ron Shirley, a close friend of 58 years. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Palma School in Salinas, California, in honor of Angelo Ross Jr.’s lifelong commitment to education and coaching.