Vineland, New Jersey Native and Legendary Vineland High School Track and Field Coach and Hall of Famer Michael "Mike" DiBiase, 75, Passes Away After Brave Fight Against Brain Tumor
December 30, 2026
This piece was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 29, 2026
The Vineland, New Jersey community mourns the loss of a cherished local icon and longtime mentor, Michael "Mike" DiBiase Jr.
Community members recall how Michael DiBiase, a dedicated educator and coach, succumbed to an aggressive brain cancer diagnosis at his home in Vineland on December 24, 2026, after an eight-month struggle.
Born in Philadelphia on May 15, 1950, to Michael Sr. and Concetta DiBiase, Mike spent his entire life in Vineland, becoming synonymous with resilience and leadership.
Mike DiBiase's impact on Vineland's youth extended far beyond the classroom; his decades-long commitment to coaching and mentoring shaped generations of student-athletes.
After earning his bachelor's in Special Education from Trenton State, he returned to Vineland High School to teach and guide young minds both inside and outside the classroom.
For over three decades, Mike served as head track and field and cross country coach, leading his teams to multiple championships and accolades.
Honored Former Athlete and Coach Mike DiBiase Excelled in Multiple Sports
Before coaching, Mike was already a standout student-athlete at VHS, mastering football, track, and basketball. His dual legacy as both athlete and coach inspired countless others to pursue excellence.
His induction into the Vineland High School Hall of Fame in 2003 recognized not just his athletic achievements, but his unwavering dedication to students and community alike.
His passing has created an irreplaceable gap in the hearts of family, friends, and those whose lives he touched daily.
Social media is flooded with tributes, including this heartfelt message: "Mike was more than a coach—he was a father, a friend, and a role model. His kindness will never be forgotten." – Robin R. Daplyn
Mike survives his wife of 54 years, Kathleen "Kathy" DiBiase, and their three children, Michael (Laura), Matthew, and Lauren (Philip), as well as grandchildren Bennett, Benjamin, and Avila. He is also survived by siblings Ronald (Louise) and Vince (Kathy), cousins, in-laws, and an extended family network.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine are encouraged.
Mike DiBiase’s spirit continues to inspire through every achievement of those he mentored.
Also Read: Explore more stories about local heroes and community leaders.
Suruchi is a passionate business management student with a knack for sports journalism. Her enthusiasm for storytelling drives her to uncover inspiring narratives within athletics and beyond.
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