Carmen Anthony DiPoalo of Carpinteria was born Feb. 19, 1939 in Jamestown, New York, to Anthony and Virginia Ceci DiPoalo.
He grew up with his sisters Sandra and Debra, and in 1949 the family moved to Monrovia, California, where his lifelong love of sports, family and community took root.
At Monrovia High School, Carmen distinguished himself as a gifted athlete in football and baseball.
A three-year letterman and 1957 MVP, he was named Wildcat of the Year, Pacific League MVP, All-CIF, and the league’s leading ground gainer. Even then, what set Carmen apart was not just his talent, but his drive, his heart, and the way he lifted up those around him.
Carmen continued his athletic career at Citrus College, earning Most Outstanding Athlete honors before transferring on a full scholarship to UCLA.
As a Bruin, he was a two-year letterman and member of the 1962 Rose Bowl team, an achievement he carried with pride throughout his life.
While at UCLA, Carmen married his high school sweetheart Harriet. Together they raised three children — Joe, Dana and Tony — and built a growing family that included 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Though he was proud to be called “Coach,” Carmen’s favorite title was “Grandpa.” His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he treasured time spent with them, especially on camping and houseboat trips to Lake Powell, where his legendary cannonball never failed to make a splash.
Carmen began his coaching career at Clovis High School (1964-66), followed by Hueneme High School (1967-69).
In 1970, he joined Santa Barbara City College, where he would leave an enduring legacy over 32 years. A brilliant defensive coordinator, his 1979 team ranked No. 1 in the state.
Over the years Carmen coached All-State, All-Americans, and players who went on to play in Division 1 programs.
More than wins or accolades, Carmen was a mentor, teacher, and steady presence in the lives of countless young men.
In his final two years, he became head coach, taking over a struggling program and restoring its pride — “The Vaqs Are Back!”
In 2002, Carmen’s team went undefeated at home and secured its first winning season in five years, capped by a 23–22 victory over Bakersfield, the final game of his remarkable 40-year coaching career.
During Carmen’s tenure, SBCC earned eight conference championships and two state playoff appearances, including the prestigious Potato Bowl in 1991.
Carmen’s contributions were recognized with induction into the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Hall of Fame (2007), the California State Community College Football Coaches Hall of Fame (2016), and SBCC Hall of Fame (2022).
While these honors meant a great deal, the relationships he built meant even more.
Carmen retired in 2003, and now had the time to pursue his other passions.
He went on endless adventures with his favorite teammate Pat Moorhouse. They were blessed to enjoy their retirement years enjoying the RV life lifestyle. They traveled to many states and Canada.
They experienced the beauty of our country, especially the National Parks. Their travels took them hunting, fishing, hiking Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon, river rafting on the Colorado River, a train ride through the Canadian Rockies, and many other trips.
It was an added blessing to have their dogs: first Greta and then Sami to share in their RV trips. Carmen’s love for labs was immeasurable. Greta and Sami brought joy to this stage of his life.
Carmen is survived by his children Joe (Charlotte), Dana (David) and Tony; grandsons Jake, Shane, Mitchell, Mike, Jay, Giovanni, Domenic, Declan, Nick and Dante; granddaughters Annabella and Brianna; great grandchildren Riley, Atlas, Kinsley, Kyah, Nico and Giovanna; and sister, Sandra (Les) and her family.
Carmen is also survived by his long time companion and best friend Pat Moorhouse and her family who shared so many wonderful memories with him.
Carmen’s life was defined by strength, loyalty, humor, and an unwavering love for his family, his players, and the game he cherished.
His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories that will be carried forward for generations.
He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.
A Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, May 17 at Carpinteria Lions Park. Casual attire is encouraged; in honor of Carmen, guests are invited to wear SBCC or UCLA apparel.