Community Mourns the Passing of Esteemed Educator Angelo Ross Jr.

Angelo Rafael Ross Jr., a beloved educator and coach, passed away peacefully at home in Santa Cruz, California, on November 3, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on September 23, 1939, to Marguerite Nellie Ross and Angelo Rafael Ross Sr. Angelo was the youngest of two children and grew up in a close-knit family that fostered a sense of community and belonging.

Angelo’s childhood was marked by joyful memories with his sister, Diane, and their numerous cousins. The Ross family home was filled with laughter and warmth, a setting that shaped Angelo’s approach to teaching and coaching throughout his life. He attended Laurel Elementary School, Mission Hill Junior High, and Santa Cruz High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. Notably, he was part of the All-CCAL lightweight basketball team and graduated as the class salutatorian in 1958.

After high school, Angelo received a basketball scholarship to UC Riverside but chose instead to attend San Jose State University. He earned his bachelor’s degree and a secondary teaching credential, graduating with honors and joining the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. His dedication to education was evident from a young age, balancing both his academic pursuits and athletic ambitions.

Following his college years, Angelo served in the United States Army Reserves as a military policeman at Fort Gordon in Georgia. After completing his service, he returned to Santa Cruz, where he began a lengthy and impactful career in education and athletics.

Legacy in Education and Athletics

From 1964 to 1999, Angelo taught at Mission Hill Junior High School, where he became a cherished figure among students and staff. Known affectionately as “Mr. Ross,” he taught U.S. History, Civics, and Physical Education, earning a reputation for his sharp wit and caring demeanor. He also served as the school’s athletic director, impacting countless students beyond the classroom.

Colleagues and students remember his ability to connect with young people, instilling values of responsibility, humility, and perseverance. Angelo was not only a teacher but also a mentor, often chaperoning student trips to Washington, D.C., and supporting aspiring educators.

Angelo’s influence extended into the world of sports. He coached football at Holy Cross High School from 1964 to 1970 and at Marello Preparatory High School from 1970 to 1977. Under his leadership, the Marello Prep varsity basketball team achieved significant success, winning 21 games and sharing the Mission Trail Athletic League championship. Angelo was also recognized as “Co-Coach of the Year” that season.

In 1977, he joined Palma High School in Salinas, where he remained until his retirement in 2014. During his nearly 40 years there, Angelo, alongside his longtime friend and coaching partner Norm Costa, guided the Chieftains to an impressive 28 league championships and 11 CCS titles. His tenure included one of the most remarkable stretches in California high school football history, featuring a 48-game unbeaten streak.

Angelo also contributed to local sports by coaching youth leagues for over 30 years, mentoring hundreds of young athletes. His achievements earned him induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame at Marello Preparatory High School in 1986, Palma High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000, and Santa Cruz High School’s Hall of Fame in 2018.

Personal Life and Final Years

In July 2014, Angelo suffered a rare spinal cord stroke that left him paralyzed. Despite this challenge, he maintained a positive spirit and continued to support his teams. He would review game films, provide feedback, and cheer for his players from the sidelines, embodying the perseverance he taught.

Family was central to Angelo’s life. He lived in the same Santa Cruz home where he grew up and cared for his mother until her passing at 103 years of age. He maintained close relationships with his sister Diane, brother-in-law Fred, and nieces Pamela and Stephanie. Angelo often reflected on the lessons taught by his mother, particularly the importance of seeing the good in people.

The family expressed deep gratitude to his caregiver, “Tootsie,” for her unwavering support over 11 years, as well as to friends and medical professionals who provided exceptional care.

Angelo is survived by his sister, Diane Marguerite Treseler, her husband Frederick, and his nieces and great-nephew. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 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, honoring Angelo’s lifelong dedication to education and coaching.