CANIZALES, Albert

Arizona Silver Belt, Globe, Arizona Wednesday, April 11, 2012 Barstow — Albert Canizales passed away Saturday, March 31, 2012 at his home in Barstow, Calif. surrounded by his loving family. Al was born on April 19, 1935 in Globe, Ariz., the devoted son of Gilbert and Louisa Canizales. Following his primary and secondary education in Globe and Blythe, Calif., Al received his BA from San Diego State University where he excelled in football, receiving numerous honors and consideration from professional scouts. He also earned a Master’s Degree in Education from Northern Arizona University. Al began his professional career in Blythe but spent the majority of his 40-year career at Barstow College where he was a noted football and basketball coach and social science teacher. Long known fondly as Coach Al, he emphasized classroom as well as on-field success to his student-athletes. He worked tirelessly to create opportunities for students who might never have been able to attend college without his help. Al was recognized as Barstow College’s Instructor of the Year in 1991-92. He was an inaugural inductee into the Barstow College Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. An avid golfer, Al was an active member of the Silver Lakes Men’s Club where he won many club and inter-club tournaments and tallied 3 holes in one. He also was a finalist in the California Amateur Championships for several years. Al is survived by his wife of 39 years, Ann; brother, Fred; sisters, Barbara and Carol; sons, Jamie and Mike; daughters, Linda and Susan; and stepsons, Tim and Tom. A Rosary will be said for Al at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 12, 2012 and Mass celebrated at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 505 East Mountain View St., in Barstow, Calif. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in support of hospice care to the Visiting Nurses Association of the Inland Counties, www.wna-ic.org or call 760-346-3982.