Douglas "Coach" Adams (68), a beloved husband, father, and grandpa, passed away on October 12, 2023, at the age of 68 in Madera, California. He was the oldest of two children born to John and Wanda (Cooper) Adams on January 6, 1955. He leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, dedication, and an enduring love for his family and the great outdoors.
Doug's journey began on oil rigs in Kern County, where he grew up, learning the value of hard work and determination from an early age. He later pursued higher education at Taft College, graduating as part of the class of '75. He initially went there with a passion for baseball, and remarkably, he fulfilled that passion and earned an AA degree. His thirst for knowledge led him to Fresno State, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and a Teaching Credential.
During his life, Doug ventured into the world of missiles and satellites, working for six years at Martin-Marietta at Vandenberg Air Force Base. He continued his education along the way, earning a Graduate Degree in Management at US International University in San Diego.
For over three decades, Doug devoted his time and passion to teaching. His impact on students and athletes was immeasurable. At Thomas Jefferson Jr. High, he coached baseball and achieved the remarkable feat of winning a League Championship in 1986/87. Throughout his 31-year tenure at Madera High School, he coached various sports, including Boys Volleyball, Baseball, Football, Girls' Basketball, and girls' and boys' Golf. He also served as faculty for the State Center Community College district for three years.
But perhaps Doug's greatest gift was his ability to effortlessly build rapport with his students and ball players, creating bonds that lasted a lifetime. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and the field, leaving a lasting impact on those whose lives he touched.
Doug relished everyday adventures outside his professional life, from outdoor concerts with his wife and friends to fishing excursions. He was a skilled and passionate fisherman, exploring rivers and streams throughout California and even the Alaskan wilderness. His love for the outdoors was infectious, and he shared countless camping adventures with those who were fortunate enough to accompany him.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents, John and Wanda, and his brother, Stephen Lewis Adams.
He is survived by his loving wife, Irene Adams (Ybarra), his daughter, Allison Leigh Weber (Brian), and his granddaughters, Harper Leigh Weber and River Ryleigh Weber. Mother-in-law Nacha Ybarra. Brother-in-law Ernie Ybarra. Nephews Aaron and Adrian and Niece Alaina Ybarra. Sister-in-law Stella Moosios (Ernie). Nephews Christopher and Jeffrey Moosios. In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind an extended family of former students who became as close as his own children, including Raymond Derrick Salas, Joseph and Cynthia Reyes and their children Joseph, Ethen, and Aubrey Reyes.
Coach Adams will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the love and laughs he shared with his family and friends.
May he rest in peace, knowing that his influence endures in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know and love him.
Visitation: 2:00 pm ~ 5:00 pm Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Jay Chapel in Madera, California.
Funeral Service: 10:00 am Monday, October 23, 2023, at Jay Chapel in Madera, California.
Interment: Calvary Cemetery in Madera, California
Remembrance can be made to;
Doug Adams Athletic Scholarship-Taft College Foundation 29 Cougar Court, Taft Ca, 93268 661-763-7936