Gonzaga University was informed late Tuesday night that Dan Fitzgerald, former head coach for Gonzaga men’s basketball, died unexpectedly earlier Tuesday evening.
Fitzgerald first came to Gonzaga in the early-1970s as freshman basketball coach, became assistant basketball coach under then-Coach Adrian Buonchristiani, left for a brief assistant coaching stint at Santa Clara University, then was named Gonzaga’s head basketball coach and athletic director in 1978.
He coached three seasons, then resigned to work full time as athletic director. But he assumed both roles again, beginning in 1985. Fitzgerald paved the way for Dan Monson to take over the coaching reins after the 1996-97 season, and Fitzgerald resigned as athletic director in December 1997.
Over the course of 15 seasons, Dan coached the Bulldogs to 252 wins and the team’s first NCAA tournament appearance in 1995. In recent years, he has served as community relations manager for Northern Quest Casino.
Gonzaga President Thayne McCulloh, Ph.D., asked the University community to keep Dan’s family, especially his wife Darleen and their daughter Kelly, in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
RIP Dan, we will miss you!
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