Francisco G. "Frank" Nogales, 86, of Santa Clarita, California passed away February 10, 2019, in Newhall. The oldest of eight siblings, he was born December 28, 1932, in Ajo, Arizona, to Francisco and Delphina Nogales.

Among Frank's many accomplishments, he received a basketball scholarship from the University of Arizona where he earned his bachelor's degree. He then served in the Army during the Korean War and later returned to the University of Arizona to get his master's degree.

In 1960, Frank and his wife Anita moved to the Santa Clarita Valley where he worked at Placerita Junior High School from the time the school opened in 1961. There, he taught for 10 years and was a guidance counselor for 24 years. After he retired from the William S. Hart Union High School District, he kept busy by working at Newhall Hardware.

Frank enjoyed poker and loved all things basketball. Perhaps his greatest joy was his family. His stature was big, and so was his personality. He brought life and happiness to all that knew him.

Frank was preceded in death by his sons Martin and Francisco Jr. and granddaughter Melissa. He is survived by Anita, his wife of over 65 years; daughter Gloria and her spouse, Charles; daughter-in-law Lori; 5 grandchildren, their spouses and 8 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at Our Lady Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 23233 Lyons Ave., Newhall, on Thursday, February 21, at 11 a.m. There will be a viewing 30 minutes prior at 10:30 a.m., followed by burial at Eternal Valley.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or your favorite charity in Frank's name.