Chas Bonasorte, Pitt Shop Owner and Iconic 1976 University of Pittsburgh Football Player, Passes Away – Obituary and Death
Chas Bonasorte, a beloved member of the University of Pittsburgh’s historic 1976 football team and the long-time operator of the iconic Pitt Shop, has passed away. Bonasorte, who earned the nickname “The Kamikaze Kid” during his college football days, was a fixture in the Pittsburgh community, especially in Oakland, where the Pitt Shop became a landmark for students, alumni, and sports fans. His death was announced in a heartfelt post on the Pitt Shop’s Instagram, where many expressed their sorrow at the loss of a legend who left an indelible mark on the local community.
Bonasorte was widely recognized for his passionate support of the University of Pittsburgh Panthers, not only as a football player but as a longtime advocate for the school’s sports culture. The Pitt Shop, which he founded and operated for decades, became more than just a retail store—it was a hub of energy, camaraderie, and memories for generations of students and alumni. Whether it was providing game-day attire for the school’s sports teams or offering a friendly face for those in need of a Pitt-themed hoodie or hat, Chas Bonasorte’s presence was felt in every corner of the university.
The announcement of Bonasorte’s passing came with a message from the Pitt Shop’s social media account: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Chas Bonasorte. The Kamikaze Kid, who was a member of Pitt football’s 1976 national championship team, was a fixture in Oakland and a Panther icon. He will be missed by all of us who work, live, and study in Oakland. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends.” The message struck a chord with former students, faculty, and fans who had their own memories of Chas.
Among the tributes was one from a former student who wrote, “Some of my favorite Pathfinder memories were at the Pitt Shop. RIP Chas! 😢😢.” Another shared, “Absolute legend. Always made me feel welcomed. RIP Chas,” reinforcing the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Bonasorte created wherever he went. Many expressed their gratitude for the way he made them feel like part of the University of Pittsburgh family, extending the hospitality and spirit of the campus to anyone who stepped into his store.
The Pitt Shop itself, which was strategically located across from the university’s Cathedral of Learning and later on Game Days in Gold 1, became an institution in its own right. The store was the one-stop shop for anyone looking to show their Pitt pride, from jackets and sweatshirts to hats and memorabilia. Bonasorte’s passion for the University was evident in every aspect of the shop. His dedication to ensuring that the store was a space where students, alumni, and even visitors could feel connected to the school made it much more than just a place to buy goods—it became a hub for creating memories.
But it was Bonasorte’s personal connection with his customers that made him truly unforgettable. Countless stories have emerged in the wake of his death, all of them telling of the kindness, generosity, and warmth that Chas exhibited to everyone who crossed his path. One former customer shared, “This man was a legend on that corner. I remember him from college, and my kids met him when they were born. He even threw T-shirts to the kids on the school buses at times. Everyone loved Chas.”
Bonasorte’s connection to the University of Pittsburgh went far beyond just his role as a business owner. During his time as a member of the 1976 football team, Bonasorte was part of a historic group that achieved national fame, as the team won the national championship that year. His teammates included legendary players like Tony Dorsett, and Bonasorte often regaled his customers with stories from his time on the road with Dorsett, sharing memories of their bond during their football careers.
“He was Tony Dorsett’s roommate for road games during their time together on the University team,” another former student recalled, underscoring the closeness that Bonasorte had with his fellow athletes. These personal anecdotes, along with his deep connection to the history of the university’s sports programs, made Chas Bonasorte a treasured figure not just for what he sold, but for the experiences and memories he shared with all who entered his store.
The passing of Chas Bonasorte marks the end of an era for the University of Pittsburgh community. Many alumni and students alike consider the Pitt Shop an integral part of their time at the university, a place that allowed them to connect with their school in meaningful ways. Bonasorte’s legacy is deeply tied to the spirit of Pitt sports, the pride that comes with being a Panther, and the lasting relationships that were formed over the years.
To many, Chas Bonasorte was much more than a businessman—he was a part of the fabric of Pitt’s history. His passing has left a void in the community, but his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. The tributes that have poured in from former students, friends, and family members reflect the deep admiration and respect that Bonasorte earned throughout his life. His presence in Oakland and at the University of Pittsburgh will be sorely missed, but his legacy as an iconic member of Pitt’s 1976 championship football team and the heart and soul behind the Pitt Shop will never be forgotten.
As the University of Pittsburgh and the broader Pittsburgh community mourn the loss of Chas Bonasorte, the outpouring of love and respect that has followed his passing speaks volumes about the impact he had on the lives of so many. He was, in many ways, a bridge between generations, helping to cultivate a sense of unity and tradition within the university that will continue long after his passing.
In honor of his legacy, many have shared memories of the countless times they visited the Pitt Shop, the friendly conversations with Chas, and the way he made them feel at home in a city and at a school they loved. Chas Bonasorte was not just a businessman—he was a symbol of community, tradition, and the spirit of the University of Pittsburgh. His passing is a reminder of how one individual can shape a place and leave a lasting impact on the lives of many.
For those who knew Chas Bonasorte, the memories will never fade. His legacy will live on through the countless stories, the memorabilia he sold, and the memories he created with everyone who stepped through the doors of the Pitt Shop. The University of Pittsburgh has lost an icon, but the community he helped build will forever be a testament to his life and his love for the Panthers.
