Angelo Rafael Ross Jr. passed away peacefully at home in Santa Cruz, California, on November 3, 2025, at the age of 86. Surrounded by his loving family, Angelo’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to education, coaching, and community service. He was born on September 23, 1939, to Marguerite Nellie Ross and Angelo Rafael Ross Sr.
Growing up in Santa Cruz, Angelo was the youngest of two children and enjoyed a joyful childhood filled with neighborhood games, gardening, and large family gatherings. The Ross household was known for its warmth, laughter, and community spirit—a sentiment that Angelo later instilled in his students and athletes. He attended Laurel Elementary School, Mission Hill Junior High, and Santa Cruz High School, where he excelled academically and athletically.
At Santa Cruz High, Angelo earned a spot on both the All-CCAL lightweight basketball team and the All-League varsity team. He graduated in 1958 as the class salutatorian, demonstrating a balance of academic and athletic prowess. Although offered a basketball scholarship to the University of California, Riverside, he opted to attend San Jose State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and a secondary teaching credential. Angelo’s academic achievements led to his induction into the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society.
After completing his studies, Angelo served in the United States Army Reserves as a military policeman at Fort Gordon in Georgia. He returned to Santa Cruz after his service, embarking on a long and influential career in education. From 1964 to 1999, he taught U.S. History, Civics, and Physical Education at Mission Hill Junior High School, where he became a beloved figure known as “Mr. Ross.” His colleagues and students remember him for his steady presence, sharp wit, and his ability to connect with young people.
Angelo’s commitment extended beyond the classroom. He mentored aspiring educators and chaperoned student trips to Washington, D.C. His impact on the sports community was equally significant, with over five decades of coaching experience. He began his coaching career at Holy Cross High School, then moved to Marello Preparatory High School, where he led the varsity basketball team to an impressive 21-win season in 1976. That year, his team earned a share of the Mission Trail Athletic League championship and saw four players named to the All-Santa Cruz County team.
In 1977, Angelo joined Palma High School in Salinas, where he remained until his retirement in 2014. During his nearly 40 years there, he, along with fellow coach Norm Costa, guided the Chieftains to an incredible 28 league championships, 11 CCS titles, and a remarkable 48-game unbeaten streak. After games, it was common for the coaching staff to reminisce over chili cheese dogs at a local diner, reflecting on their strategies and players’ performances.
Angelo also contributed to Santa Cruz High School as an assistant baseball coach, helping the Cardinals secure the league title in 1989. His dedication to youth sports extended to coaching Pony and Colt leagues, where he inspired hundreds of young athletes. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Marello Preparatory High School Basketball Hall of Fame in 1986, the Palma High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000, and the Santa Cruz High School Hall of Fame in 2018.
Despite suffering a spinal cord stroke in July 2014 that left him paralyzed, Angelo’s spirit remained unbroken. He continued to engage with his teams, reviewing game film and attending Friday night games to cheer on his players. Angelo once said, “Perseverance is something I try to teach,” a lesson he embodied throughout his life.
Family was at the core of Angelo’s life. He lived in the same Santa Cruz home where he grew up, caring for his mother until her passing at 103 years old. He maintained close relationships with his sister, Diane Marguerite Treseler, and her family, as well as his nieces and extended relatives. Angelo often credited his mother with instilling in him the value of seeing the good in people, a philosophy that guided his teaching and coaching.
In a heartfelt statement, the family expressed their gratitude to his caregiver, affectionately known as “Tootsie,” for her unwavering support over the past 11 years. They also acknowledged the love and care provided by friends and medical professionals throughout Angelo’s life.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on November 24, 2025, at Resurrection Church in Aptos, California, officiated by Father Ron Shirley, a dear friend of 58 years. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Palma School in Salinas, California, to honor Angelo’s lifelong commitment to education and coaching.
