John Harry Daskal, age 89, of Lillington, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on April 25, 2024. He was born on May 25, 1934, in Cumberland County, NC, to the late Harry John Daskal and Mary Koutarou Daskal.
John was a man of great faith and a devoted servant of God. He served as a Deacon, Elder, and he was awarded Elder Emeritus at Flat Branch Covenant Presbyterian Church. His dedication to his faith was evident in his role as a Sunday School Teacher and choir member, where he inspired many with his wisdom and kindness.
Beyond his spiritual endeavors, John was a pillar of his community and was known for his contributions to high school football. With a coaching career spanning 31 years, John amassed an impressive record of 211-100-4. He coached at Reid Ross, Terry Sanford, and Pine Forest High Schools, leading teams to multiple State 4-A finals and securing the 4-A Division II State Title in 1981 at Reid Ross High School. His outstanding achievements were honored with the naming of the Reid Ross Classical School stadium in his honor. At the time of his retirement, John was the winningest coach in Cumberland County School history.
During his coaching career, John was honored to serve as the President of the North Carolina Coaches Association. He was an assistant coach then head coach of the Shrine Bowl and the East-West All-Star games. After his retirement, he was the Head of the Physical Education Department of Cumberland County Schools and commentated on the televised Game of the Week. John was honored with the Long Leaf Pine Award and was inducted into the Fayetteville Coaches Hall of Fame. All his honors were based upon not only his successful coaching record but more importantly his great character, integrity, and compassion for others.
In addition to his coaching legacy, John proudly served his country in the army, achieving the rank of Corporal during his two years of service.
John's impact extended far beyond the football field and the church. He was a mentor, friend, and inspiration to all who knew him. His warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed.
John is survived by his loving wife, Carol Butler Daskal; his devoted daughter, Kimberly Lee, and her husband Dewayne Lee of Lillington; his daughter, Kristina Magyar, and her husband Jay of Lillington; his grandchildren, Ashton Weaver (Evan), John Martin Magyar, Ansley Lee, Jacey Magyar, and Nick Magyar; and his great-grandson, Micah John Weaver, who will be joining the family soon. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, George Harry Daskal.
A funeral service to celebrate John's life will be held on Monday, April 29, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Flat Branch Covenant Presbyterian Church, with visitation prior to the service from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Burial with military honors will follow at the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Flat Branch Covenant Presbyterian Church, 130 Darroch Road, Bunnlevel, NC 28323.
Services are entrusted to Adcock Funeral Home of Spring Lake.
