Youngstown State University and The University of Akron are two universities mourning the passing of Dan Peters on Monday.

Peters was YSU’s men’s basketball coach from 1993-99.

Peters, who won 78 games at YSU, was named the Mid-Continent Conference Coach of the Year in 1998 after leading the Penguins to a 20-9 record and an appearance in the Mid-Con tournament championship game.

“We are deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of the passing of former Youngstown State men’s basketball head coach Dan Peters,” said YSU Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Ron Strollo. “Dan was a cherished member of our athletic department from 1993-99 and remained a special part of our university and community. Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife, Nancy, his sons, Danny and Michael, and his entire family.”

Peters’ last stop in his career was as Akron’s director of basketball operations.

Peters, 60, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2013 and took an indefinite medical leave of absence after the Zips played Bethune-Cookman on Dec. 14.

“Today, we suffered a tremendous loss for our program and our team; in addition, I lost one of my closest personal friends,” Akron coach Keith Dambrot said. “‘Pete’ had a calming effect and compassion toward our players that will be difficult to replace. He served this program with his heart, his spirit and his soul, and he will be remembered for his selflessness and sacrifices. Our hearts go out to his wife, his sons and the rest of his family. This upcoming season will surely be dedicated in his honor.”

Aside from Akron and YSU, Peters was part of the following programs: Arizona, Ball State, Bowling Green, Buffalo, Central Michigan, Cincinnati, Delta State, Eastern Michigan (men and women), Houghton College, Kent State, Miami (Ohio), Northern Illinois, Ohio, Ohio State, St. Joseph’s College (Ind.), Toledo, Walsh University, Western Carolina, West Virginia and Western Michigan.

Peters is a northeast Ohio native who was born in Cleveland and grew up in Canton. He is a 1976 graduate of Kent State University.

Current YSU coach Jerry Slocum is one of many people mourning Peters’ passing.

“I knew Dan for 20 years and there was not a finer person that was good for basketball,” Slocum said. “He was a gentleman, he always cared about his players and the people around him. He was what is good about this coaching profession. I wish to send my deepest condolences and prayers to Nancy, Danny and Michael and the entire Peters family.”