The Juan Diego Catholic High School community is mourning the loss of Coach John Colosimo, 76, who passed away after decades of service as an educator, mentor, and community leader.
Colosimo was the founding vice principal of Juan Diego Catholic High School when it opened in 1999.
In addition, he was the visionary head football coach who built one of Utah’s most respected high school football dynasties.
The school shared in a statement,
“John was a foundational figure in shaping the identity and success of Juan Diego and the greater Catholic community in Utah.”
John Colosimo Had A Legacy Of Leadership And Excellence
Over two decades at Juan Diego, John Colosimo’s teams participated in 10 state championship games, winning eight titles.
He also ranks fourth all-time in career wins, with an impressive 235 victories.
Moreover, Colosimo’s football legacy extended beyond trophies and stats.
He led his teams to 17 regional championships, including two remarkable three-peat runs, and nurtured a program rooted in faith, discipline, and integrity.
In recognition of his accomplishments, he was inducted into the National High School Football Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Utah Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
Additionally, Juan Diego’s football field was officially renamed John Colosimo Field at Soaring Eagle Stadium in 2022.
The school wrote,
“Coach Colosimo’s true legacy lies in the character he shaped. He taught his athletes more than plays and formations; he taught them hard work, sacrifice, humility, and above all, to keep the faith.”
One story, now etched into school lore, perfectly captures Colosimo’s selflessness.
Early in his career, one of his players had his cleats stolen before a game.
Without hesitation, Colosimo took off his only pair of shoes and gave them to the player so he could participate.
He later returned home in ill-fitting shoes, brushing off questions from his wife Kathie with a simple, “I forgot mine.”
Kathie shared,
“I would never have known that had that parent not told me the story years later. That was John — humble, kind, and always thinking of others.”
John Colosimo Was A Loving Husband And Father
John Colosimo is survived by his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Kathie, and their three children: Gianna, Julia, and Gabriel.
He is also mourned by his son-in-law, Brandon, his grandson, Miles, and his seven siblings.
Juan Diego Catholic High School will announce funeral services and celebration of life details via their Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) pages.
Coach Colosimo’s influence will endure in the halls of Juan Diego, on football fields across the state, and in the hearts of the many lives he touched.
His legacy extends not only to the games he won but also to the generations of students, players, and colleagues he inspired to live with honor, purpose, and faith.
Rest in peace, Coach!
