It is with deep sorrow that we
announce the peaceful passing of Michael Abram Nugent, a beloved father,
grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, coach, referee, mentor,
friend, and dedicated sports enthusiast, on June 13, 2025, at the age of
78. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in learning, influence,
discipline, teamwork, guidance, fairness, support and an unwavering
passion for sports.
He was born on September 6, 1946, in Paterson,
New Jersey, Mike dedicated his life to his passion for learning and
teaching. As a proud “Bulldog” by way of graduating from Burbank High
(1964) and the University of Redlands (1969), he found his true calling
as a teacher and “Bulldog” at Bowman High School. There he took immense
pleasure in shaping young minds, fostering critical thinking and
supporting teens on their journey to adulthood. While receiving the
Teacher of the Year award from the Hart District in 2003 was a point of
pride, it was surpassed by the profound satisfaction of seeing his
Bowman students graduate and successfully transition into adulthood,
many of whom he maintained contact with for years.
Outside of
academia, Mike's greatest enjoyment stemmed from his lifelong
involvement in sports as a player, coach, referee, and all-around
supporter. He was a highly respected basketball referee for four decades
and an acclaimed coach, allowing him to instill principles of fair
play, discipline and teamwork in generations of athletes. In recent
years, he took immense pride and delight in cheering on his grandson
Robert across various sports, including football, basketball, baseball,
soccer and track.
Mike was a natural mentor who found great
satisfaction in guiding, coaching, advising and supporting others. He
seamlessly combined his pedagogical wisdom with the values of
sportsmanship; using this unique approach to help others navigate
challenges and discover their full potential, both in and out of the
classroom and on and off the court.
In 2019, The Santa Clarita Signal published an article, “The Man Behind the Whistle”, capturing the essence of Mike Nugent.
Mike
is survived by his loving children, Vivian Forr, Tami Nugent, Leigh
Bissell and Ryk Comerford; his cherished grandchildren, Robert Nugent,
Kierstin Wilcox and Easen Bissell; his adored great-grandchildren,
Carson and Emerie Wilcox; his admired brother Bob Nugent; beloved nephew
Robert Nugent, dear niece Nicole Nugent and his treasured (former) wife
of 41 years Judi Nugent. He also leaves behind a vast network of former
students, colleagues, friends and sports fanatics whose lives were
profoundly impacted by his passion and spirit.
A Celebration of
Life will be held on August 10, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at
Burbank VFW 1006 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank California. Guests are
encouraged to wear sports-themed attire, with Lakers, Dodgers, USC, UCLA
or Rams gear being a favored choice.
In lieu of flowers, the
family requests that donations be made to the Bowman Scholarship Fund in
Michael Abram Nugent's name, supporting the next generation of Bulldogs
in their education. To donate, please make checks payable to Bowman
High School and mail them to: 21508 Centre Pointe Pkwy, Santa Clarita,
California 91350.
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