Alfonso Perez "Plope" Hurtado

In Loving Memory of Alfonso "Coach Hurtado" Perez Hurtado
January 23, 1940 – October 28, 2025

Alfonso Perez Hurtado-known to generations of students, athletes, and friends as Coach Hurtado, and lovingly as "Plope" to his family-passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was 85 years old.

Born in Trona, California, on January 23, 1940, Coach Hurtado moved to Pittsburg at the age of seven with his mother, Matilda, father Jesus and his ten siblings-Jess, Mike, Frank, Joey, Lupe, Rachel, Mary, Lil, Alice, and Nena. It was there, in the tight-knit Pittsburg community, that his lifelong love of family, faith, and sports began to take root.

A proud graduate of Pittsburg High School, Coach Hurtado went on to earn his bachelor's degree from San Jose State University and a Master's degree from Saint Mary's College. After beginning his teaching career, he settled in Martinez to raise his family and later retired in Brentwood, where he continued to cheer on his children, grandchildren, and the many athletes whose lives he had touched.

Coach Hurtado's remarkable 47-year career in education and athletics was defined by passion, dedication, and a deep belief in the potential of young people. For 38 years, he served at College Park High School as a PE and math teacher, as well as head coach for both the football and basketball teams. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and playing fields-he was a mentor, motivator, and role model to thousands.

Later in his career, Coach Hurtado served as an administrator at College Park and then as a league commissioner for twelve years before his first retirement in 2003 when the College Park gymnasium was named in his honor-a lasting tribute to his legacy. But his heart never strayed far from the game or his community. In 2005, he returned to his alma mater, Pittsburg High School, as Athletic Director, where he continued to shape young lives until his retirement in 2012.

His dedication and leadership were honored many times over. In 2012, he was inducted into the College Park Hall of Fame. In 2023, he received the Distinguished Service Award from the North Coast Section, recognizing a lifetime of commitment to student-athletes and sportsmanship.

Coach Hurtado is survived by his loving partner, Linda Lucido; his ex-wife, Alice Hurtado; his sons, Lance and Mark and his cherished daughters-in-law, Kathleen, Jenny and Angelina. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, , Kali, Jaylen, Vince, Mia, Max, Angelina, Ella, and Mariah. He is also survived by his siblings Jess, Mike, Frank, Joey, Lupe, Lil, and Nena; along with his extended family and countless friends and former students who will forever carry his lessons in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Charles, his sisters Rachel, Mary, Alice, and his mother and father, Matilda & Jesus.

To his family, he was "Plope"-a source of wisdom, and unconditional love. To his colleagues and athletes, he was "Coach Hurtado"-a man of integrity, discipline, and heart who inspired everyone to be their best. His presence filled every gym, field, and classroom with energy and encouragement, and his influence will live on for generations.

Coach Hurtado will always be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for his kindness, loyalty, and unwavering belief in others.

A celebration of Coach Hurtado's life will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at The Church of the Good Shepherd, 3200 Harbor Street, Pittsburg, California.
Mass at 11:00 a.m.