Michael Abram Nugent

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.