Douglas D'Amore

D'AMORE, Douglas John The final buzzer sounded on Doug D'Amore as he left this game on April 17, 2017. Born July 21, 1950 to Anthony D'Amore and Violet Held who, along with his brother, Dennis and sister-in-law, Jayne, preceded him in death. 'Big Doug' is survived by his wife Jane (Shebuski); brother, Tom (Leticia) and sister, Debbie (David) and his five children, Sheri (Jon), Doug (Claire), Thomas (Jodi), Tyler and Jerry Hines. He was also "Papa" to nine grandchildren, Benjamin, Quintin, Cole, Emma, Cooper, Nora, Logan, Laynie and Gavin as well as 'Uncle Doug' to sixteen nieces and nephews. Having operated a group home for children in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems for over 35 years he was a foster father to another 350 boys for whom he was guide and guardian. Every boy was touched by his perpetual optimism, humor and conviction that they could succeed in life. Additionally, hundreds of young girls and boys addressed him as 'Coach' and were first hand witnesses to his love of sport, competition and the joy he took in teaching both skills and strategy. It is likely that when the final buzzer sounded, Doug hit the last shot for the win. He pretty much always did throughout his 66 plus years. The life and athletic achievements of all his children and grandchildren, the successes of his foster kids, the confidence imparted to those he coached found it origins in Doug's joy of life philosophy. His advice would always be the same regardless of the endeavor, "Take the shot." Regardless of the outcome everyone knew he would be there to congratulate or console and when necessary, urge on the next shot. A Celebration of Big Doug's joy for life will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. at the Vistoso Funeral Home located at 2285 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd in Oro Valley. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Coach Doug D'Amore foundation at any Wells Fargo Bank in town or if you would like to make a wire donation to the foundation the account number is 8878964751. This foundation will fund an annual basketball summer camp for youth in need… The only way Coach would have it.