Mario Raso Obituary, Death – The community of Hamilton is mourning the loss of Mario Raso, a dedicated teacher, soccer and hockey coach, and beloved member of the community, who passed away on September 29, 2024, at the age of 60. His passing was announced on social media with a heartfelt message: “Absolutely saddened to hear my cousin Mario Raso has passed away. An amazing teacher and soccer and hockey coach, loved by his students, family, and friends.”
Mario’s life was one of service, commitment, and passion for education and sports, and his loss has left a profound impact on the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable career. Born in Calabria, Italy, in 1963, Mario moved to Canada at the age of three with his family, where he would eventually grow up and become a pillar of his community. He pursued his education at Mohawk College, McMaster University, and Brock University, where he honed the skills that would later shape his career in teaching and coaching.
For over 30 years, Mario dedicated himself to educating the youth of Hamilton, primarily as a high school teacher at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School, where he spent the majority of his career. He also taught briefly at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Known for his engaging teaching style and genuine concern for his students, Mario was a teacher who went beyond the classroom. He aimed to create an environment where learning was not only about absorbing information but about inspiring growth, creativity, and confidence. His students adored him for his ability to connect with them on a personal level, making education enjoyable and meaningful.
Mario’s impact extended far beyond the classroom walls, especially on the sports field, where he spent over four decades coaching soccer and hockey. His love for soccer, in particular, was palpable, as he dedicated himself to helping young athletes realize their full potential. Mario worked with several local soccer clubs, including Sparta, Mt. Hamilton, West Hamilton, and Ancaster, where he coached players at all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. His coaching career was filled with success, including leading his high school teams to multiple City Championships and, most notably, to OFSAA Gold in 2022 for senior girls’ soccer.
As a coach, Mario’s primary goal was to ensure that his players had a positive experience both on and off the field. He was known for his calm demeanor, patient guidance, and ability to bring out the best in his athletes. His training sessions were a testament to his deep knowledge of the game, combining hard work and enjoyment. His influence extended far beyond sports, as many of his former players and students saw him as a role model and mentor, someone who genuinely cared about their growth as individuals.
Mario’s love for sports didn’t stop at coaching; he was an exceptionally skilled ball and ice hockey player. His talent on the ice, particularly his remarkable stick-handling skills, earned him the admiration of many. Later in life, Mario found joy in road cycling, where his endurance and passion for the sport earned him the affectionate nickname “the king of the mountains” from his fellow cyclists.
As news of Mario’s passing spread, tributes poured in from across the community, with many expressing their sorrow and sharing fond memories of the man who had such a profound impact on their lives. Mario’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and a tireless commitment to helping others succeed, whether in the classroom, on the soccer field, or in life.
Funeral arrangements have been made to honor Mario’s life. Visitation will be held at FRISCOLANTI FUNERAL CHAPEL on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 1-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., as well as on Thursday, October 10, from 2-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will take place at Regina Mundi Parish on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 1 p.m., followed by entombment at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Ancaster.
In addition, a special gathering will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School, where Mario spent so many years teaching and coaching. The event will take place following the committal at the cemetery, with friends, family, and colleagues gathering to celebrate Mario’s life and legacy. Those wishing to attend are asked to arrive at 3:30 p.m. to allow for a smooth conclusion to the school day.
The Hamilton community, along with Mario’s family and friends, will continue to honor his memory by carrying forward the values he instilled in so many: hard work, kindness, and a love for learning and sport. Mario Raso may be gone, but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.
