Fred M. Cuccia

Fred Michael Cuccia

February 13, 1945 – February 20, 2026

Fred Michael Cuccia, beloved husband, father, papa, friend and coach passed away Friday February 20, 2026, in Glendale California after a long courageous fight.

Fred was born and raised in Los Angeles to Nick Cuccia and Louise Tocci of Highland Park. He graduated from Cathedral High School in 1963 and went on to Glendale Community College, University of Utah and California State Los Angeles, where he graduated with a bachelor's in education.

Fred was a decorated soldier and proudly served his country in Vietnam (1968-1971) as an Army Airborne Ranger.

Fred's career started off working with the Southern California Gas Company, though after a few years he quickly transferred his career into his first love, Football! He taught and coached at many schools over the years; Glendale Community College, Notre Dame High School, Mark Kepple High School, Hoover High School, South Pasadena High School, Poly High School in Sun Valley, where he led his team to the 1990 CIF Championship and Monroe High School. His teaching and coaching career came to a sad end in 1996 when he suffered a Massive Cerebral Hemorrhage (Stroke) in July of 1996.

Fred met the love of his life (Carol) out with friends one evening. They fell hard for each other and were married in August of 1974. They were married for 51 years and exemplified what marriage vows entail. Fred and Carol had two children; Dena Cuccia-Cavazos and Rocco Cuccia (Christine) as well as 5 Grandchildren; Georgia Cuccia-George (Hunter), Guido Cuccia, Avery Cavazos, Carlos Palomo and Mary Palomo.

Fred was a true warrior and fought courageously with the many health crises he endured during his years. He had a way with words and never held back how he felt. He was exceptional when it came to a game of trivia and watched Jeopardy every night. He loved Alabama Football and UCLA Basketball. He was passionate about The Rolling Stones and could listen to them day and night. Fred was most proud of coming from nothing and ending up with everything he could've dreamt of a beautiful life, home, family and coaching career.

Fred will be laid to rest at the Los Angeles National Cemetery with full Military honors on Monday April 13, 2026.

In lieu of flowers the family ask you to consider making a donation in his name to Soldiers to Sidelines; www.soldierstosideline.org