"Coach" John DeGasperis
"Coach" John V. DeGasperis, 86, joined his Lord in Heaven on Monday, Feb. 16, 2015, after being constantly surrounded by his loving family, including Anne, his beautiful bride of over 60 years, and his six children, Bill, John, Judy, Donna Jean, Tom, Mike and their families, 19 grandchildren and three great-grandsons. His brothers, sister, and brother and sister-in laws were his best friends, and he always had a special place in his heart for his many nieces and nephews, and called all those he loved, "darling" and "pal."
John grew up in Cliffside Park, went to St. Cecelia High School in Englewood and was captain of the football team under Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi, and also went on to be the captain of the football team at University of Delaware.
Many people remember John as an amazing football coach and teacher at Paramus High School. For over 35 years, John brought his coaching values to his team, positively influencing many young people throughout the years. His students at Paramus High School were always treated like his own children, and he held his football players close to his heart. His colleagues held him in high esteem and remained dear life-long friends.
Everyone that had the privilege of knowing John knew that God, family and country were his priorities, and he passed those ideals along to his children. His welcoming nature, explosive smile and unconditional love for his children, grandchildren, all family and friends were apparent in all that he did.
John's sparkle when he looked at his wife, Anne, his crazy love for children and his amazing sense of humor never left him. He has huge shoes that none could ever fill, but what a goal for all of us to strive for!
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Kenny "Tash" Tashian (1964)
Mr. DeGasperis "Gassie" was a mentor, coach, and friend to everyone, not just athletes. He was so much more than part of the faculty, he was part of our lives, a part that endured over time. Life's lessons were not learned by instruction, but rather by example. He was simply the best!
Many from the Class of 1964 will recall how he helped us through the shock and grief the day President Kennedy was assassinated. Michele See was on the road with him during a Driver's Education class. He was a comfort, and someone she could turn to for strength in the midst of a national tragedy. To this day she appreciates having been with Mr. D on that fateful day.
I was fortunate to have remained close to Mr. D (I still can't call teachers by their first names not matter how old I get) through his lifelong friendship with my father "Pops." For years, there was a group of teachers that included Mr. Corso, Mr. Brown, Mr. Kingsley, Mr. Haugh, and Mr. "D" got together on a regular basis for lunch. I tried to time my trips back East to coincide with these luncheons. It was worth the effort to see this group of mentors in a personal setting. Mr. D was always good for a joke, a story, or a jab at his peers that was hilarious. What a great sense of humor! He will be missed.
Vic Canzani (1965)
There is a special bond between players, teammates, and coaches. As a student at Paramus HS, I was extremely privileged to play for, and with, some extraordinary people. Coach Lanzalotta was one of the finest men I have ever known, Coach Peck gave me a chance to play, and I would have done anything not to let him down, and Coach DeGasparis was that special person who taught us football— a game of hard work, individual responsibility, teamwork, accountability, sportsmanship and passion. In short, a blueprint for a successful life. Football got me into college, gave me a scholarship, fostered lifetime friendships, and provided lasting memories. My one regret is that I never truly thanked him.
I have to smile thinking of Frank and Doon and all the teammates who left us much too soon— they have their coach back and I can only hope that when my time comes, they will have saved a place for me.
Michele See (Simon) (1964)
Coach De was absolutely one of my favorite people at PHS. Taught me how to drive. He had so much patience. We were together in the Driver's Ed car when JFK's shooting was announced on the radio. He told me to immediately get back to the school and said, "step on it". I'll never forget it. I used to do the mimeographing of plays for the football team. He was always very appreciative. Had a great sense of humor. My thoughts are with his wife of 60 years Ann and his 6 children and his 19 grandchildren and his 3 great-grandchildren. We've lost a wonderful man. RIP