Barstool producer Jonathan Stanko has tragically passed away at 32 years old after being diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer on April 29.
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He revealed the news via a blog post in May 2024.
"Since February, I have been having digestive issues. There were issues with certain foods, a complete loss of appetite, really bad indigestion and cases of having trouble swallowing."
Stanko stated that after undergoing an endoscopy, CT Scans, multiple Emergency Department visits, X-Rays, and MRIs, it has been confirmed that he had cancer in his stomach and liver.
He stated, "given about 14 months to live if he didn't respond to chemotherapy. "
Following the news of Stanko's passing after his battle with cancer, Barstool Sports Founder Dave Portnoy gave a heartfelt statement on X.
"Really sad news from the world of Barstool. We lost Jonathan Stanko to cancer yesterday morning. He was 32 years old and leaves behind a wife. He worked in our NY offices for close to 4 years and was well liked by literally everybody he worked with. (Very rare at Barstool). It's the 1st time we've had to deal with something this heavy in the 20 years of Barstool. A cruel reminder not to take a day for granted because tomorrow isn't promised to anybody. #stankostrong"
Stanko received a lot of love from his coworkers, as many paid tribute to the production technician.
It was an honor being best friends for 14 years. I couldn't have asked for a better friend, roomate and coworker. I wouldn't be where I am today without you. Thank you for everything
Rest easy. #StankoStrong pic.twitter.com/gdgY2U5LiM
— Steve Kultzow (@Steve_Kultzow) January 7, 2025
Barstool personality Dan 'Big Cat' Katz also spoke on the tragic news.
"Truly heartbreaking and so incredibly unfair. Stanko was the best and an important part of everything we do at Barstool. An incredible talent and great friend to everyone. We'll miss him dearly. Rest in Peace and f*** Cancer. #StankoStrong"
Stanko also was remembered by the University of Iona, as he worked as an assistant director of athletic communications before starting at Bartstool Sports.
The school's athletic department released a statement:
"It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Jonathan Stanko, a beloved member of the @ionauniversity and @IonaGaels family and class of 2014 alumnus... Jonathan dedicated more than a decade of his life to the athletic department, leaving a lasting mark on our community and the countless lives he touched. His kindness, unwavering dedication, and infectious spirit will forever remain a part of who we are."
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. Jonathan, you will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace."
Related: Legendary NFL, College Hoops Sportscaster Greg Gumbel Passes Away
