Don’t Let the Old Man In and for 87 remarkable years, Dino Cunial did just that. Born to Emilio and Giaconda (Zanesco) Cunial, on September 29, 1938 in Susanville, CA, Dino was the youngest sibling to the late Dario Cunial and late Norma (Cunial) Farano. What a great reunion it must have been when Dino passed and was reunited with his family and his daughter Laurie on June 6, 2026.
Growing up in Susanville remained one of Dino’s favorite topics of conversation. He fondly recalled his first job at just seven or eight years old, tending cows for one dollar a day. Even as a young boy, Dino’s work ethic was evident. He was also a gifted athlete, excelling in football and basketball throughout his school years. After attending Lassen Junior College and graduating from Sacramento State, Dino followed in his brother’s footsteps and went into teaching. Dino often said his brother, Dario, was his role model.
It was at the dance hall in Westwood where Dino met his soulmate, Sharon Prior. Their love story lasted nearly 70 wonderful years of marriage--a partnership built on faith, family, and unwavering devotion.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Cunial; his children, Julie Ross, and Dan (Annie) Cunial; his grandchildren, Nicole Berg, Jason Berg, Kelsey Moe, Bruce Cowan, Michael Cowan, Jared Ross, Carly Cunial, Emily Frisk, and Jack Cunial, 13 greatgrandchildren, sister-in-law, Susan Jullian, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Laurie Berg. Grandpa Dino was very proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and loved hearing about their adventures, activities, and accomplishments.
Mr. Cunial began his teaching career in 1961 at Manteca High School, where he taught orientation and geography while coaching the Buffaloes for four years. In 1966, he became one of the founding educators at the newly opened East Union High School, and became the athletic director in 1972--a position he held with distinction for 27 years. Coach Cunial’s influence reached far beyond athletics. Through his leadership, mentorship, and dedication to students, he helped shape generations of young people and left an enduring mark on the Manteca community. After retiring in 2000, Dino and Sharon enjoyed traveling throughout the country in their motorhome with dear friends, creating memories and adventures that they treasured. a man of faith, Dino was a proud parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. He was deeply involved with the Italian Catholic Federation and the Knights of Columbus, where he served as Past Grand Knight. In recognition of his lifelong service to education and the community, he was inducted into the Manteca Hall of Fame in 2006.
Dino was blessed with lifelong friendships, many spanning more than 50 years. Those who knew him best described him as fiercely loyal, deeply caring, and always willing to help others succeed. One friend said, “If you looked up the word friend in the dictionary, you would find Dino’s name.” Another called him “a treasure to Manteca,” adding that there is no more fitting tribute than having the East Union stadium bear his name. In his spare time, Dino enjoyed woodworking, creating memory boxes, and handcrafted treasures for family members that will be cherished for generations. He loved the San Francisco Forty-Niners and San Francisco Giants. He listened to country-western music and the occasional Italian opera while spending time on his tractor. Retirement also brought one of his favorite pastimes: hosting bocce games at his home, where family and friends gathered over a little red wine, some salami, and plenty of heckling.
In April 2022, Aaron Goodwin interviewed Dino for the Man About Town Podcast. The family is grateful for this lasting gift, preserving Dino’s stories and spirit for generations to come. Those wishing to hear Dino in his own words are encouraged to listen to the episode.
P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cunial family. The family invites all whose lives were touched by Dino to celebrate his life on Thursday, July 16, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. The Rosary will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Chez Shari in Manteca.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the East Union Athletic Boosters, the Italian Catholic Federation of St. Anthony’s (Branch 139), or the Knights of Columbus of St. Anthony’s Council #10693.
Dino’s greatest legacy was never measured by wins, titles, or honors. It was found in the lives he shaped, the friendships he nurtured, the family he adored, and the example he set every day. He lived with integrity, kindness, humility, and unwavering love—and because of that, he will never be forgotten.
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Saturday, July 11, 2026
