J. Luis Zabala

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University of San Francisco

J. Zabala Obituary

J. Luis Zabala February 14, 1923 - February 1, 2009 As an eighth-generation Californian, Luis was born in San Francisco. He was educated at St. Bridget's Grammar School, St. Ignatius High School and the University of San Francisco, and graduated in 1949 with a degree in business administration. He worked as a salesman and sales manager for Wesix Heater Company for many years, and then purchased Electric Supply of Salinas in 1964, which he then expanded into the regions of Central and Northern California. By 1984 Luis had achieved the role of president of the National Association of Electrical Distributors that encompassed members both nationally and internationally, as well as served as co-founder of the Western Independent Electrical Distributers (WIED). He served as president and chief negotiator from its inception until the time he sold his business in 1994. Luis perpetuated the Zabala legacy in the land that was given to his ancestors as a Spanish Land Grant, managing row crops in Monterey County and Santa Barbara. His love for this land led to the family's development of the Zabala Vineyards, in Soledad, CA. Family was important to J. Luis Zabala and his wife of 50 years, Anna Marie Zabala, who preceded him in death in 2000. Together they lived in Atherton, and Carmel, CA, and raised their five children: Anna Maria, Honore (Russ), Marceline, Paul, and Luis Jr. Luis also enjoyed nine grandchildren: Kindra and Eric (Honore); Kellie Spano (Marceline); Courtney, Zachary and Garrett (Paul and Kathy); and Megan, Kyle and Leslie (Luis and Joni). In 2001, he found love a second time and married Peggy O'Day, who brought five children to the family: Cathleen, Carol, Eileen, Dennis and Jack. Luis was preceded in death by his beloved brothers Honore (1945) and Fr. Albert, S.J. (1985). Luis loved traveling the world with his family, including Europe, South America, China, Australia and Africa, and enjoyed bringing his entire family together on trips. He appreciated the sport of tennis, spent many years duck hunting as a member of the Salinas Land and Cattle Co., and liked nothing more than to gather his friends and family at the pool for long, afternoon barbecues. He rarely missed a chance to negotiate or debate business deals, and spent many hours enjoying the company of his relatives and friends. The family of the Marianist Order also held a special place in Luis' heart, as they shared a deep friendship. A Mass in celebration of Luis' life will be held on Friday, Feb. 13 at 11:00 am at the Chapel of the Marianist Retirement Center, 22683 Alcalde Rd., Cupertino, CA, 95014. A reception will follow. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the charity of your choice, or to Chaminade University for the J. Luis Zabala Scholarship Fund: Chaminade University J. Luis Zabala Scholarship Fund, 3140 Waialae Avenue Honolulu, Hawaii 96816

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle on Feb. 8, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for J. Zabala

8 Entries

February 13, 2025

Friend, Mentor and unforgettable. I miss Luis and Russ and my memories at the "Salinas".

Jim Cooke , jr

June 18, 2024

My condolences to the Zabala Family. I always referred to him as Mr. Zabala. Honore (I knew him as Rusty) and I were friends for many years & then grew apart as life took us in different directions. We grew up together in Menlo Park (On Palm Court). The Zabala's were in the house next store. In my early 20's, I worked for Mr. Zabala in one of his Electrical Supply stores. I have nothing but great respect for Mr. Zabala. A man with a very kind heart. He made his mark in this world & we were all better off knowing him. God bless you & your family.

Mike Sherman

May 21, 2009

Lou was a great guy to know and do business with, where we enjoyed a friendly banter and common respect. I much looked forward to an annual duck hunt with Lou, and couldn't ask for a better host and companion in the blind. I also enjoyed getting to know Russ, Paul and Luis, who each have some of Lou's best qualities plus a few of their own. Heartfelt wishes to you guys and your families.

Moran and Tom Lubbesmeyer (Joni's brother)

February 15, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jerry Peters

February 14, 2009

Mr. Zabala was our landlord when my brother and I attended San Francisco State in the early 1960's. We rented the front apartment on the 3rd floor at 1322 Ninth Avenue on the N line. I believe Mr. Zabala inherited the property from a uncle. An assitant lived in the back apartment for a while, I recall. It was nice building, a classic S.F. place. It was torn down for a parking lot. We had a great time there. I recalled Mr. Zabala talking about his work for the heater company. He was a good landloard. Best wishes.

Bob Depke

February 12, 2009

My sincere condolences to the Zabala family for Mr. Zabala's passing. I began my career in the Electrical Wholesale business in 1982 at Electrical Supply of Salinas. Because of my own circumstances I moved on in 1983 to the East Coast, but I have been in the same business ever since. Mr. Zabala and Electrical Supply of Salinas left an enduring impression with me of excellence in business and caring for people.

kathleen monahan evans

February 10, 2009

Luis and Ann Marie were role models for me, a child growing up in SF on 22nd Ave.
Luis was a strong, secure, caring man. I thank him for all he did for his neighbors the Monahan family.
Their baby sitter/ Kathleen Monahan

Kurt & Claudia Fisher

February 8, 2009

Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Kristine enjoyed getting to know Mr. Zabala.

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