Remembering Manny Penaflor: Donation to SAHS Athletics

Manny Penaflor touched countless lives as a dedicated teacher and coach at Santa Ana High School. For 37 years, he taught ESL, math, and driver’s education, and spent decades coaching football, soccer, wrestling, and track. Manny’s commitment to his students and athletes was unwavering, and his influence extended far beyond the classroom and the field. He was honored to be inducted into the Santa Ana High School Athletic Hall of Fame, a testament to the impact he made on generations of young people. Many of his former athletes remained close to him throughout his life, a reflection of the deep connections he built through mentorship and friendship.

Above all, Manny was a devoted family man. He shared 60 years of marriage with his wife Louise, and was a loving father to Louie, Micky, Cathy, and Joe, and a proud grandfather to Julia, Jake, Hannah, Lance, Louis, Dylan, and Sophia. His family will always cherish his warmth, his humor, and the stories he loved to tell about his days playing Cal football. Manny’s pride in his family and his community was evident in everything he did.

In lieu of flowers, the Penaflor family invites you to honor Manny’s memory by supporting the Santa Ana High School athletic program—a cause that meant so much to him. Your donation will help continue the legacy of a man who gave so much to his students, athletes, and loved ones. The family is deeply grateful for your support and for helping keep Manny’s spirit alive in the school and program he helped shape.