Dino Baskovic

BASKOVIC, DINO V., age 50. Born August 3, 1974, in Cleveland, Ohio, Dino passed away on February 23, 2025, having dueled with brain cancer for more than 16 years. Through several surgeries and setbacks, Dino maintained his trademark wit, sharing his story with characteristic levity and counseling all to always look on the bright side of life.

A graduate of Padua Franciscan High School in Parma, Ohio, Dino earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a concentration in public relations from Kent State University. His talents took him from PR work with Weber Shandwick, to freelance web design, as well as teaching digital marketing at Lawrence Technological University and Grand Valley State University.

Throughout his many endeavors, Dino’s humor and creativity, to say nothing of his technical acumen, were the common threads. That his hilarious posts on his pioneering Dinomentia blog led him to Aimee, his wife of 22 years, is a testament to his unique approach to the world.

During the pandemic came Dino After Dark, a conversational podcast where he fostered community among his family and friends, lightening a dark time for all involved. In-person or online, none were immune to his comedic style; he could coax laughter from even the most stoic.

Dino’s final career move, where he truly hit his stride, saw him assume the role of sports director for the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. His passion for mentoring young athletes and emphasizing teamwork endeared him to YMCA members and staff, building strong friendships and earning him recognition for his dedication and leadership.

Not one to remain idle in his spare time, Dino became the president of his local Beer City Browns Backers club, meeting weekly with fellow fans to cheer on his beloved Cleveland Browns.

Dino was the beloved grandson of his late grandparents, Antonio and Anna Ranieri and Vincent and Jean Baskovic. He was preceded in death by his father, Vincent Baskovic, and is survived by his mother, Victoria Baskovic (née Ranieri), and aunt, Maria Ranieri (his second mother), his wife, Aimee, and daughters Isabella and Ava. Dino is survived as well by his extended family: uncles Tony Ranieri (Lori), Pete Ranieri (Dawn), his aunt Janice Chase (Larry), along with cherished nieces and nephews, Liliana Ranieri, Marc Ranieri and Vincent Ranieri, and many loving cousins.

Dino's legacy is one of resilience, humor, community service, and unwavering love for his family and friends. May his memory continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Also, Go Browns.

Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday March 4, 2025 St. John Bosco Church at 10:00 AM. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will receive friends MONDAY EVENING 4 – 8 PM at the A. RIPEPI & SONS FUNERAL HOME, 18149 BAGLEY ROAD, MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS (WEST OF I-71).