The softball community in Macomb County and beyond is mourning the unexpected death of Tony Misuraca, fondly called “Coach Miz,” on May 19, 2025.
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and coach, Tony leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and outstanding impact on the sport he loved.
He is survived by his wife, Kim Janusch-Misuraca, his daughters, Krysta Whitbread and Andrea Kennedy, and his four grandchildren, Bryce, Kadde, Rosalee, and Joslyn, whom he adored coaching in their Little League games after his retirement in 2024.
Tony Misuraca Was A Beloved Coach, Mentor, Friend, And A Key Figure In The Sterling Heights Community
Born and raised in Michigan, Tony earned an associate degree in business administration from Macomb Community College in 1976.
For 38 years, he worked as an industrial sales representative for Vesco Oil Corporation, balancing his professional career with his true passion: coaching softball.
His journey in softball began as an assistant coach at the University of Detroit Mercy under former Dakota head coach Dan Vitale.
Longtime Stevenson softball coach Tony Misuraca dies https://t.co/fCspZx8a3f pic.twitter.com/kAfVwnTzUF
— The Macomb Daily (@macombdaily) May 21, 2025
This experience led to a lifelong commitment to the sport, which led him to Sterling Heights Stevenson High School, where he served as head coach for 16 years.
Over his 25-year coaching career, Tony amassed an impressive 444 victories, guiding Stevenson to two Macomb Area Conference (MAC) Red titles, nine district titles, and two regional titles.
His leadership shaped countless young athletes, 39 former Stevenson players advancing to collegiate softball.
Known as “Coach Miz,” Tony was celebrated for his constant support for his players both on and off the field.
His coaching philosophy went beyond winning games, he focused on building confidence, fostering teamwork, and teaching life lessons.
His impact was deep, earning him two Macomb County Coach of the Year awards and recognition for leading two Macomb County Teams of the Year.
In 2025, his contributions were honored with his induction into the Macomb County Athletic Directors Association Hall of Fame, evidence of his continuing influence.
Utica softball head coach Dionna Giacona, Tony’s cousin, captured the community’s sentiment:
“There’s literally no words, The softball community lost a legend, an absolute legend. I don’t know that there’s anybody in this league, in this county, in Oakland County, that has a bad word to say about that man. He is softball.”
Via Macombdaily
Her words show the deep respect and admiration Tony inspires in everyone he meets.
The News Of Tony’s Death Shocked The Baseball Community
George Spiteri, a longtime friend, shared his grief:
“A sad day. Tony and I first met about 40 years ago when we bowled in the same Friday night league at Continental Lanes in Roseville. I covered the Hall of Fame induction ceremony and was able to chat a bit. Totally floored when I heard of his passing.”
Via Facebook
His words highlight the personal connections Tony forged over decades, from bowling alleys to softball fields.
A former athlete from Sterling Heights High School, part of the class of 1978, expressed their sorrow:
” So many from Sterling Heights High School is going so quickly to teachers and now the coach I remember him in class of 78. Rest in peace condolences to friends and family. “
Via Facebook
These heartfelt tributes highlight Tony’s lasting impact on his students and players, many of whom carry his lessons with them to this day.
Tony Misuraca formally retires after coaching Stevenson softball for 25 years https://t.co/hhravozVZ3 pic.twitter.com/qdqirKvtaT
— The Macomb Daily (@macombdaily) July 1, 2024
Tony retired from coaching after the 2024 season to spend more time with his family, particularly his four grandchildren.
He poured the same passion he showed on the softball field into coaching their Little League teams, delighting in watching them grow and play.
His family was his heart, and his love for them was clear in every moment he spent with them.
Beyond his accolades, Tony was a man of warmth and humility.
He had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued, whether they were a star player, a rookie, or a friend from the community.
His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through the athletes he coached to success, the colleagues he inspired, and the family he cherished.
Rest in peace, Coach Miz.
