John DiSangro Obituary, Fairless Hills – John DiSangro, a trusted confidant of Hall of Fame coach John Chaney and a behind-the-scenes force in Philadelphia sports broadcasting, died Thursday of a heart attack at his home in Fairless Hills. He was 60.
Mr. DiSangro grew up in Tacony, Philadelphia, in a tight-knit rowhouse on Ditman Street, the son of John and Rose Mary DiSangro. His love of sports was sparked early, as older kids quizzed him on scores and lineups, teaching him that knowing the game was essential. After graduating from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1983, he attended Temple University to study journalism, where a chance interview led him to join Chaney’s basketball staff as a student manager.
Over more than 20 seasons with the Owls, Mr. DiSangro became indispensable. He managed travel, scouted opponents, arranged tickets, and made sure every player and coach had what they needed—right down to the morning doughnuts before 5:30 a.m. practices. In recognition of his dedication, Temple inducted him into the Basketball Ring of Honor in 2017.
“Chaney took John under his wing,” said his brother, Steve DiSangro. “He was like a son to him. Their relationship was incredible.”
Mr. DiSangro helped guide Temple to 17 NCAA Tournament appearances and five trips to the Elite Eight. When Chaney retired in 2006, Mr. DiSangro transitioned to broadcasting, becoming an associate producer for Phillies telecasts with Comcast SportsNet. He handled graphics, directed trivia segments, and traveled with the team, earning a World Series ring in 2008.
“He was the guy who, when you needed something done, he was the guy who got it done,” said Phillies broadcaster Tom McCarthy.
Known affectionately as “Sang,” Mr. DiSangro was famous for his humility and unwavering work ethic. Whether reviewing lottery tickets for Coach Chaney or ensuring the right stat was on screen, he was dependable, meticulous, and kind.
“He was like the bass player in a rock band,” said Jon Slobotkin, who hired him to produce Phillies games. “You might not notice him, but everything worked because of him.”
Mr. DiSangro is survived by his longtime girlfriend, Daryl Ehrhart; her children, Kristin and John (Jennifer); grandchildren Kristin, Jason, Jordan, Jade, Rhys, and Declan; his siblings Steve (Linda), Gina (John), and Mary (Roy); and his nephews Rocco, Lucas, John, and Christopher.
Viewings will be held Wednesday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. at James J. Dougherty Funeral Home in Levittown, followed by a service at 11 a.m.
Rest in peace, John DiSangro
