Jim Toupal
08.27.26
James Allen “Jim” Toupal, affectionately known to generations as "Coach Toupal," passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026, at the age of 80, following a brief illness. A lifelong pillar of the Trinidad community, Jim leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as a legendary mentor, an elite collegiate coach, and a deeply devoted family man.
Born on July 21, 1946, in Trinidad, Colorado, Jim was the son of Ed and Helen Toupal. He grew up in the local community, graduating from Trinidad High School in 1964, where he was a standout all-state football and basketball player.
His athletic talents earned him a full ride football scholarship far from home to Boston College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Accounting in 1968.
That same milestone year of 1968, Jim married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Salbato, beginning a beautiful 58-year journey together. While he initially intended to follow a corporate path, Jim realized his true calling was in education and athletics. He returned to his roots and eventually earned a Master’s Degree in Sports & Physical Education from Adams State College.
In 1969, Jim began what would become a monumental, 34-year career at Trinidad State Junior College (TSJC). He started as an assistant football and baseball coach, eventually coaching almost every sport the college offered—including volleyball and golf.
However, it was on the hardwood as the Head Men's Basketball Coach and long-time Athletic Director that Jim etched his name into sports history. Known for pacing the sidelines with a signature white towel slung over his shoulder, "Coach Toupal" amassed 678 total basketball victories. His legendary teams set an astonishing NJCAA national record by winning 132 consecutive home games at Scott Gymnasium, a dominant streak spanning from 1980 to 1990. He led his 1985–86 squad to a 8th-place finish at the NJCAA National Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas.
His immense impact on the game earned him Region IX Coach of the Year honors four times and resulted in numerous prestigious lifetime achievements, including:
Induction into the NJCAA Hall of Fame (1998), Induction into the Trinidad State Junior College Educational Foundation Hall of Fame (2013), Induction into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame (2016)
Though proud of the records, Jim always maintained that his greatest reward was helping young athletes grow into successful men, keeping a watchful eye on their academics and futures.
Outside of TSJC, Jim’s life completely revolved around sports, camaraderie, and community. He was a regular fixture at local games, he was a referee for many years, loved playing golf and softball, and fiercely enjoyed his weekly card and poker games with his buddies. He loved nothing more than laughing, storytelling, and visiting with his close friends at the Park Cafe.
Above all his athletic accolades, Jim’s greatest joy was his family. He was an incredibly proud father and grandfather, rarely missing a game or activity. His grandchildren were his absolute world, and he cherished his role as their ultimate fan, affectionately calling them his "Smurfs."
Preceded in Death by: His parents, Ed and Helen Toupal, His parents-in-law, Mary Ann and Roland Yarberry, and John Salbato, His brother, John Toupal, His sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Jim Harnish, His granddaughter-in-law, Saria Waln, His nephews, Jim and Don Harnish, and great-niece, Nicol Harnish.
Survived and Lovingly Remembered by: His devoted wife, Nancy Toupal, His children: Tracy (Joe Madrid) and John (Kristy) Toupal, His cherished grandchildren: Jeff Martinez, Kaylee Gegelman, RJ Toupal, Erin Toupal, Jesse Gegelman, Cole Gegelman, and Jojo Madrid. His sisters and brother-in-law: Marynell and Dennis Lochard, and Nancy Ready. His nephews and nieces: David and Dean Harnish, Zach Lochard, Mike Ready, Jamie, Ed, Cate, Beth, Jen, and Bill Toupal, along with a large, extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins. A vast community of special, lifelong friends whom he considered family.
Active Pallbearers: Jeff Martinez, RJ Toupal, Jojo Madrid, Cole Gegelman, David Harnish, Zach Lochard, and Bill Toupal.
Honorary Pallbearers: Mike Maestas, Dick Compton, Joe Terry, Doc Leonetti, and Mike Vecchio.
Family and Friends are invited to a Rosary on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 9:30 am at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. A Funeral Service will commence at 10:00 am, with interment to follow at Trinidad Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the Family requests donations be made to the Trinidad State Trojan Men’s Basketball Team - c/o – Trinidad State Foundation (Toni DeAngelis) 600 Prospect St. Trinidad, CO 81082