With saddened hearts, we announce the passing of Gustavo Zepeda, or as affectionately called "Papa" by his wife, daughters, and grandchildren on September 18, 2023. He passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 69.

The second oldest of ten children, Gustavo was born on January 12, 1954, to Lorenzo and Arcelia Zepeda in Los Vergara, Jalisco, Mexico. He immigrated to the United States from Mexico in the 1970's and moved to Lompoc in 1979.

In 1977, Gustavo met the love of his life Rosalie, and they got married on October 24, 1977, in Solvang, California. On March 17, 1997, they renewed their vows in an intimate ceremony at La Purisima Concepción Church.

He worked for Pea Soup Andersen's for over 35 years where he found his passion for cooking and perfected his craft from the young age of 20. Better known as "Chef Gus" he was featured on the Santa Ynez Valley news.

The biggest joy of his life was his granddaughter Presley whom he'd dance, sing, and play the guitar with. Once he retired, he would spend his days dropping and picking her up from school and would attend school gatherings such as Grandparents Day.

Gustavo is preceded in death by his parents Lorenzo and Arcelia Zepeda, brother Joaquín Zepeda and daughter Rebeca Zepeda.

He is survived by his wife Rosalie of 46 years, daughters Cristina, Felicia, and Angelica grandchildren Presley, Luke, and April, siblings Ruben, Lucina, Rebeca, Sergio, Moises, Hector, Rocio, and Oswaldo along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Gustavo will be greatly missed for his kindness and funny sense of humor.

Everyone who knew and loved him is welcome to pay their respects at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary on Thursday, September 28, 2023, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm with a vigil service starting at 7 pm.

A mass will be held at La Purisima Concepción Catholic Church located at 213 W Olive Ave on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 10:00 am. Interment to follow at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.