Mickey Iliano, a football coach for over 35 years, passed away peacefully at the age of 68, surrounded by his loving family, on August 10, 2025.
His beloved wife of 43 years, Colleen Donohoe; children, Michael, Lauren Jamieson, and Kalie Corrao; and three grandchildren, Penelope, Emme & Audrey Jamieson, survive him.
"Hats Off" to Coach Mickey Iliano for helping out at the RNC with his CWRU FOOTBALL hat on. pic.twitter.com/q5vRutDoQH
— Greg Debeljak (@DebeljakGreg) July 22, 2016
Michael Anthony “Mickey” Iliano was a proud Italian-American, a devoted Ohio State Buckeyes fan, and a beloved figure in Cleveland’s sports and community circles.
He attended Holy Redeemer and Collinwood High School before taking his talents to the University of Dubuque in Iowa, where he excelled as a two-sport athlete in football and baseball.
His true legacy was built on the sidelines and shaped young athletes for over 35 years. He coached football at Case Western Reserve University, John Carroll University, University School, and Beachwood High School.
Beyond the field, Mickey served the City of Cleveland for 40 years in the Building Department. He was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and genuine care for his colleagues.
He made time for everyone, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him, whether at work or on the gridiron. Undoubtedly, his tragic passing saddened the whole community, and many remembered him in their heartfelt tribute.
Incredible teacher and man. Rest in peace, Coach Mick.
Ryan Breon
Mickey Iliano’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
Michael “Mickey” Anthony Iliano, the son of Anthony and Christina Iliano, was born on May 10, 1957, and grew up in Collinwood.
His parents raised him in a close-knit family alongside his two siblings, Anthony and Joseph.
I lost a great friend and coaching colleague on Sunday. Mickey Iliano was beloved by all who knew him. I knew Mick as a passionate football coach and devoted family man. He pushed his players to become the best they could be. He worked to improve every player in his charge, pic.twitter.com/TsjtgjViea
— Greg Debeljak (@GregDebeljak) August 12, 2025
Mickey Iliano, 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on August 10, 2025.
He was the beloved husband of Colleen Donohoe for 43 cherished years; devoted father to Michael, Lauren Jamieson, and Kalie Corrao; and proud grandfather to his three adored granddaughters, Penelope, Emme, and Audrey Jamieson.
He was a loving brother and a dear brother-in-law to Marybeth McDonough, John, and Michael Donohoe.
Moreover, he was a favorite uncle to Matthew McDonough, Madeleine & Josie Donohoe, Anthony & Nick Iliano, and Mairen, Ian & Ava Donohoe, as well as a great-uncle to Liam.
Mickey was also a loyal friend, dedicated colleague, and inspiring coach to countless individuals whose lives he touched.
His parents and his in-laws, John and Margaret Donohoe, preceded him in death.
Above all else, Mickey was a man of deep love, unwavering loyalty, and boundless generosity. His family was his most incredible pride, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
He especially loved being a Pop to his three granddaughters, who brought him immeasurable joy.
Mickey Iliano, one of our high school football coaches in the 80’s has passed away. He was a very talented, tough no-nonsense coach who made you accountable. Coach Mick was a great guy, he started coaching the Offensive Line at Beachwood in 1980 when he was in his mid 20’s. He, and most of the other coaches under Coach Perella were also young, but fiercely committed to our team. All of his players had great respect for him. After Beachwood, he did very well growing his coaching career at University School, John Carroll University and Case Western Reserve University. Coach Mick was an outstanding husband, father and grandfather and brother. He had a positive impact on all of us.
Jack Rotsky
Mickey had a gift for making everyone around him feel valued, whether through his quick wit, his willingness to lend a hand, or his steadfast presence in times of need.
Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Mickey’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 16, at Holy Redeemer Church, 15712 Kipling Ave., Cleveland. His burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery.
The Iliano family will receive friends at The Vitantonio-Previte Funeral Home, 5236 Mayfield Rd., Lyndhurst, on Friday, August 15, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM.
Nonetheless, Mickey’s legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
Rest in Peace, Coach Mickey.
