Guadalupe Ledezma Sanchez

Guadalupe Ledezma Sanchez, "Lupe," was born October 28, 1961, in Tulare, California. His final final was April 28, 2025. The son of farming immigrant parents, he began working in the fields at a young age, as his father passed away when he was three. When Lupe reached high school, his mother told him he could pick one sport a year to participate in, as he was needed on the farm. Lupe chose to join the football team. He ended up playing on one of the greatest high school teams in California history. Lupe graduated from Mt. Whitney High School, in 1979. He then attended and played football for UCLA. There he was named first team All PAC 10, and received the Kenneth S. Washington Award for Outstanding Senior. Today he ranks fifth on their all time interceptions record, and has more starts than anyone in Bruin football history. Lupe was drafted into a professional football career that lasted several years. This was highlighted by being the 1986 AFC kick-off return leader, and being named a team captain on the 1987 Pittsburgh Steelers. In the bigger picture, Lupe was a friend to anyone who spoke with him. A kind man, who disliked public speaking, but wouldn't bat an eye when asked to speak to the youth. His message, "I've gone farther in life because of my education, than in football." Reminding young people the importance of educational opportunities. He used his intelligence with numbers within a successful and trusted career in financial advising spanning 37 years. Lupe married his high school sweetheart, Pauline Jimenez Sanchez. The couple chose to stay local, to establish a family with roots. His daughter Jaqueline is an Associate Clinical Supervisor for Autism Behavior Consultants in Long Beach, and son Christian is a recently badged CHP officer, stationed in Santa Rosa. Lupe's children were his pride and joy. Pauline faithfully stayed by his side through it all. They were married 37 years. Lupe didn't know how to say "no," when asked for help. He routinely gave money to causes, or gave his time to friends, or charities in need of it. He was a founding member of the Young Sanchez Foundation, which benefited local youth. Lupe only gave advice when asked for it, and never judged the person asking. Lupe was as humble as they came, while possessing an ora that drew people to him. Surviving Lupe are: Wife Pauline, and children Jacqueline, and Christian. His brother Ruben and wife Raquel Sanchez, his sister Mary Sanchez and husband Salvador, and several nieces and nephews. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel and at the families request are to remain private. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Guadalupe Ledezma Sanchez

October 28, 1961 - April 28, 2025