Case Western Reserve University and the world of collegiate athletics lost one of their most beloved figures on Thursday evening as the legendary Bob Del Rosa passed away from complications of a late summer surgery. Del Rosa, 75, was entering his 50th year with the CWRU athletic department and his 46th season as head wrestling coach.

Surrounded by his family, and supported by an early evening visit from his team, Del Rosa passed away peacefully around 8:00 p.m. on Thursday.

"While no words can adequately describe Coach D.'s unequaled contributions to our department and University, I find comfort knowing that all of us are richer personally for knowing him," said Director of Athletics Dave Diles. "The professional lessons we all gained through witnessing his education, support and mentoring of countless young people will serve us well and keep his legacy alive."

Del Rosa was a constant in a Case Western Reserve athletics program that has seen significant change during the past five decades. In addition to serving as wrestling coach, he also spent time as head coach of Spartan football, baseball and tennis as well as serving as the department's compliance director.  

Del Rosa's wrestling program has produced four national champions, 37 national qualifiers, 18 All-Americans and 35 NCAA Scholar All-Americans. In 1996, Del Rosa was inducted into the Division III Wrestling Hall of Fame. He was later inducted into the CWRU Spartan Club Hall of Fame in 2006.

A graduate of the University of Cincinnati, Del Rosa was a three-year letterwinner and a captain for the 1958 Bearcat football team.

Del Rosa is survived by his wife, Ann of Mentor, Ohio, and their two sons, Scott and Jim.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be finalized.