Frank Garofalo

Frank Garofalo, 78, born on July 16, 1947, in Brooklyn, NY, United States, passed away August 13, 2025. He resided in La Verne, CA at the time of his passing. Arrangements are under the care of Forest Lawn, Covina Hills, CA. In the summer of 2024, Frank was diagnosed with Bulbar "ALS" and after a year long battle he is now resting peacefully joining his parents Frank Garofalo, Phyllis (Babe) Gallo, Aunts - Millie Gallo, Catherine Gallo Koppel and Uncle Christopher (Sonny). In addition to his parents and aunts and uncle, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Jane Wampler.  May they all rest in peace.

Frank served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed to Camp Casey, Korea. Once he returned home from the military, Frank then pursued a career with the Social Security Offices of California and then eventually found his love for teaching.

Frank was an Educator at the South San Francisco school district where he helped many students who were at risk. He had a special interest in these kids, as he helped them turn their lives around. Often the students stated that without "Mr. G" I would not be who I am today. He was the one teacher that believed in these students that many gave up on. He passionately believed in them, gave them a second chance and guided them back into the mainstream education. He gave these students confidence to believe in themselves.

He is survived by his second wife, Zandra Rocha, two step-children Edward and Maureen Fernandez, son-in-law Jeruz, grandchildren, Kamea, Kaelyn, Kira, Isabella and Jackson.  Younger sister, Joan Garofalo, cherished cousin to many, including Kathy Kaese, Debbie Gallo, Chrissy and Johnny Koppel.

Among the many milestones of his well-lived life, Frank was a proud citizen of the United States and often spoke of politics.  He enjoyed reading, trips to the library - which was eventually replaced with the Amazon "Kindle" app.  He also loved his long walks in the trails nearby, swimming in the ocean, weekly runs to Trader Joe's, and helping his grandkids with their homework.  Out of all his enjoyments in life there was nothing more important to him than a day at the races.  He was an avid race track junkie, devoted to the weekly race form as if it was the bible.

A celebration of Frank's life will be conducted at 9:45 a.m., Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Holy Name of Mary Church in San Dimas, CA.  Interment will be at Forest Lawn in Covina and reception to follow in San Dimas Canyon Golf Course.