Nicholas E. Tavaglione

Nicholas Eugene Tavaglione (Big Nick/Pop), passed away from natural causes on Monday, October 22, 2018 one week shy of his 87th birthday. He is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Sallie, son Nick (Sandy) Tavaglione, daughter Donna (Don) Luginbill of Riverside, Grandchildren: Jeremy (Tara) Luginbill, Nicholas Tavaglione, Jamie Luginbill, Cara Tavaglione and seven great-grandchildren. He was the youngest in a family of 11 with two brothers still alive, Joe and Louie Tavaglione.

His family moved to Riverside in 1927. He went to Riverside Poly High School and Riverside City College where he met Sallie. He started working at his family winery the Rubidoux Winery while attending Riverside City College. He played football and baseball. He became RCC's first All-American in 1952. After graduating from RCC, he completed his education at Pepperdine University. He became a teacher and coach for numerous years and many teams at various levels including Elementary and High School.

He was a strong family man with a commitment to helping others and said his prayers every night. He was the go to guy in the family and community. He founded the Riverside Little League, Riverside Rancheros with his brother Louie, Pop Warner Football founding member, RCC Tiger Backers founding member and Poly High Football booster club. He served as Director of the Riverside County Olympic Committee, Chairman of the Board of Riverside National Bank, Riverside County Grand Jury, PTA boards, member of the Riverside County Planning Commission and as a trustee for Riverside Community Hospital. He was also President of the Foundation at RCC and of the Tiger Backers. A few of his many honors are, RCC Alumnus of the Year in 1995, Humanitarian of the Year by the Riverside Recovery Resources and Riverside Police Officers Citizen of the Year in 1994 after building the Safe in His Arms monument. He was a prominent General Contractor and Developer in Riverside and other states across the country.

The public is invited to a Memorial service set for 9:30am Friday, November 2, 2018 at Main Campus Sandals Church, 150 Palmyrita Avenue, Riverside with a reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Riverside Chapter Red Cross or Alzheimer's Association. There will also be an opportunity to donate at the service for a special family in need.