Dave Portnoy announces tragic death of Barstool Sports employee Jonathan Stanko, 32, after cancer battle
Barstool boss Dave Portnoy has announced the death of one of his employees, Jonathan Stanko, who was 32 and died Monday after a battle with cancer.
Stanko leaves behind a wife, and one of the photos Portnoy passed along appears to show his wedding day.
Portnoy also commented on how Stanko accomplished a rare feat for the company: being universally loved.
“Really sad news from the world of Barstool. We lost Jonathan Stanko yesterday morning to cancer,” Portnoy said. ‘He was 32 years old and leaves behind a wife.
“He worked in our New York offices for almost four years and was well-liked by literally everyone he worked with. (Very rare at Barstool).’
“It’s the first time in Barstool’s 20 years of existence that we’ve had to deal with something this serious. A cruel reminder not to take a day for granted, because tomorrow is not promised to anyone. #stankostrong’
Dave Portnoy of Barstool has announced the death of one of his employees, Jonathan Stanko
Stanko, who was 32, is survived by a wife and died Monday after a battle with cancer
Fellow Barstool employee Steve Kultzow paid tribute to Stanko, whom he called his “best friend.”
‘It was an honor to be best friends for fourteen years. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend, roommate and colleague,” Kultzow said. ‘Without you I wouldn’t be where I am today. Thanks for everything. Rest in peace. #StankoStrong’
Many more well wishes appeared on social media for Stanko, with Portnoy’s message only heightening awareness of his passing.
Kultzow and Stanko are also pictured together on social media in front of an Iona University banner with three basketball trophies.