Sallianne "Sally" Zamudio, 90, of Mission Bay, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, in Lemon Grove, California, after several years in assisted living with dementia. She was born on December 4, 1934, in Hubbard, Oregon, to Flossie and Herman Bontrager, the youngest of three sisters. Her family moved to San Diego when she was about ten, and she lived there for the rest of her life.
A gifted student, Sally skipped two grades and graduated from Grossmont High School at just 16. That same year, she married her first husband, Larry Boerner, and they welcomed two children, Christine Marie and Craig Lawrence. They divorced after just 5 years and she then opened a beauty shop in El Cajon, where she met her second husband, Harvey Steinman. Harvey had two children, Susan and Sandy, and together they welcomed a daughter, Beth Ann. During this time, she began using the blended name "Sallianne" Steinman, and soon launched what would become a highly successful career in real estate.
Sallianne built a distinguished career in commercial real estate, becoming one of the early women to work in San Diego's commercial sector. She was widely respected for her integrity, drive, and professionalism, and represented many notable clients, including members of the San Diego Chargers. Despite a demanding career, she remained devoted to her children, raising them many years as a single mother with strength and grace.
In 1978, she married Joseph Zamudio, the great love of her life. Together they built a successful business life and enjoyed family time, as well as trips to Mammoth and Borrego Springs. Joe's passing in 1996 deeply shaped her later years.
Sallianne was known for her fashion, elegance, and love of travel, theater, new cultures, and visits to casinos. Above all, she was a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother. She supported the educational paths of her eight grandchildren and treasured her six great-grandchildren.
In her later years, she was also grateful for the loyal companionship of Al Zale, who remained a caring presence for years and throughout her illness.
Survived by:
- Christy Donnelly (Ken); Christy's son Curtis Crawford - (Tamara Crawford, daughters Brooklyn and Emma) and daughter Carissa Crawford
- Craig Steinman (Marlene Bjorstrom); children Jennipher Steinman (Julien Wilson, Juniper Somayajii), Joey Steinman (daughter Korinne Ballow), and Sarah Fernandes (Elliot and Lydia)
- Beth and Craig Broderick; sons Cameron and Willy Broderick
Stepchildren:
- Monette Zamudio (daughter Sydney Zamudio)
- Susan Taylor (sons David and AJ)
- Sandy Steinman
Please make any contributions in her memory to the charity of your choice. A small celebration of life in the spring will be private.
Your condolences, memories, and tributes are welcome in the guest book below as we celebrate the life of Sallianne "Sally" Zamudio.