Fresno High AD Dan Ascanio remembered for kindness, dedication to students and sports
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- Dan Ascanio, 68, died unexpectedly on May 16 and colleagues remember him.
- Ascanio served several years as Fresno High athletic director and supported athletics.
- He led Madera High baseball to a 1987 Central Section championship as a coach.
Dan Ascanio had a gift for making people feel welcome.
Whether he was coaching baseball, serving as an athletic director or simply greeting someone in passing, Ascanio treated people as if they were longtime friends. His warm personality and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Ascanio, 68, died unexpectedly on May 16.
He served for several years as athletic director at Fresno High School, where colleagues remember him as a dedicated administrator who cared deeply about students, coaches and athletics programs.
“I cherished our relationship,” said Fresno High baseball coach and assistant athletic director Jason Papi. “I feel fortunate to have been able to bring him to Fresno High when our athletics director job opened up. I called Dan to see if he would be interested, and we met at Starbucks to talk about the position. He ended up applying, interviewing and getting the job.
“It’s just been a pleasure to work alongside him.”
Papi said Ascanio was committed to supporting Fresno High athletics and was always willing to lend a hand, including during the annual Fresno Easter Classic baseball tournament.
Before joining Fresno High, Ascanio enjoyed a successful coaching career at Madera High School, leading the baseball program to a Central Section championship in 1987. He also served as athletic director in Reedley.
The Central Section recognized Ascanio’s impact on the local sports community by holding moments of silence during the Central Section softball championships and before a Central Section baseball playoff game between Fresno and Bakersfield Christian.
Roosevelt High athletic director Larry Lopez said he had known Ascanio since their days at San Joaquin Memorial and considered him both a colleague and friend.
“I don’t know a more genuine individual,” Lopez said. “You’re talking about a professional at the highest level. He knew the rule book front to back. I had the pleasure of working with him when he came over to Fresno High. I couldn’t tell you how much he’s meant to my professional career.
“He’s always celebrated our achievements at Roosevelt, even though he was at Fresno High. I did the same for him. He’s going to be sorely missed.”
A funeral service was scheduled for Monday, June 1 at Reedley Mennonite Brethren Church at 1362 L St. in Reedley.
