Dear Stuyvesant Community,
It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that I share the passing of Coach John Robert Carlesi, Stuyvesant High School’s long-time and beloved baseball coach. Coach Carlesi passed away on July 6, 2025.
Since joining Stuyvesant in 2002, Coach Carlesi has left a profound and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of students, families, and colleagues. To many, he was more than just a coach—he was a mentor, a role model, a friend, and even a "superhero." These were roles he embraced with unwavering pride and deep responsibility.
Although I only had the privilege of working with Coach for a short time, it was immediately clear how deeply he loved his team and the greater Stuyvesant community. In our most recent conversations, what stood out most was his steadfast dedication—not only to his players’ performance on the field but also to their growth off the field and in the classroom. While he certainly strove for excellence in athletics, what mattered most to him was shaping young men into thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate individuals.
There is no greater legacy than the impact we have on others—through our actions, our words, and the way we make people feel. Coach Carlesi lived that legacy each and every day. He embodied the values we hope our students will carry forward: integrity, perseverance, kindness, and humility.
Several staff members and I had the honor of attending Coach Carlesi’s services. What struck us most was the overwhelming presence of former and current students who came to pay tribute—each one a living testament to his influence and care. While the room was filled with sorrow, it was equally filled with gratitude, love, and celebration of a life that touched so many.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, and especially to his wife, Diane. I encourage you to take a moment to read Coach Carlesi’s obituary<https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/john-carlesi-obituary?id=58821210> <https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/john-carlesi-obituary?id=58821210> and reflect on the remarkable life he led.
He will be deeply missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he guided and inspired.
Sincerely,
Dr. Seung C. Yu
Principal
Stuyvesant High School
Office: 212-312-4800
Fax: 212-587-3874
www.stuy.edu<http://www.stuy.edu/>
Follow Stuyvesant on Facebook @StuyNYC or Twitter @StuyNY or Instagram @Stuyvesanths_NYC<https://www.instagram.com/stuyvesanths_nyc/?hl=en>
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Dina Ingram
Business Manager/
Director of Family Engagement
Stuyvesant High School
212-312-4800 ext. 2731 - Office
www.stuy.eduhttps://linktr.ee/stuyvesant_nyc
