Sean Christopher Lum

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Sean Christopher Garman Lum of Sunnyvale, California, at the age of 39 on September 10, 2025. Born on September 18, 1985, in Guam, Sean was the beloved son of Elaine Tendido Sarmiento. He was a loving son and a source of boundless love and joy to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing has left an enormous void in the hearts of his family and friends, including those touched by his kindness and warmth.

At the core of Sean's life was his deep, unshakeable bond with his mother. He was her rock, her constant companion, and her greatest source of comfort. Sean's love for his mother was immeasurable. He cherished every moment with her and she with him, whether enjoying simple pleasures like shopping together, sharing meals, or just spending quiet time in each other's company.

Sean shared many unforgettable moments with family, always present at gatherings, celebrating birthdays and holidays, laughing, and retelling stories and adventures. His close bond with family was one of deep affection. These moments were precious and will forever remain in our hearts.

Sean's spirit was sweet, kind, and always genuine. His sense of humor brought happiness to all and lightness to the hardest days. He loved music and the outdoors, paddleboarding at Lake Tahoe, hiking through the desert, and simply enjoying nature's beauty. Sean took joy in cooking for his friends, who became fans of his chicken kelaguen, chili, and banana cream pie. He enjoyed playing old video games from his childhood and was a big movie enthusiast, often quoting lines from his favorite movies, with a particular fondness for classic Godzilla films. Sean's love for these simple joys made him someone you always wanted to be around.

In his biotechnology career, Sean was not only a colleague but also served as a mentor and friend, constantly offering support, humor, and even snacks to those around him. His colleagues remember him for his warmth, his playful and welcoming spirit, and his ability to bring people together.

We ask that you remember Sean not for the way his life ended, but for the beautiful way he lived, always loving, always giving, and making those around him feel special. May his love and generosity continue to inspire us all.

Sean leaves behind his mother, Elaine Tendido Sarmiento, and his two older brothers, Reylan Tendido and Christian Miguel, along with his grandmother, Emiline Tendido; aunts Nita Dudley, Lourdes Tendido, and Minerva Cuabo; uncle Nestor Tendido; cousins Melanie Guevara, Angelo Invencion, Chelsea Invencion, Ian Invencion, Chloe Cuabo, Ethan Cuabo, Jessica Petty Hernandez, Emiline Tendido Majors, and Nathan Tendido. Sean will be fondly remembered by his loving nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends who felt like family; each of them cherished him and will greatly miss his presence.

Memorial Service

Services will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., at Greer Family Mortuary, 2694 Blanding Avenue, Alameda, CA 94501, where stories and memories will be shared in Sean's honor.

The family is deeply grateful for the love and support they have received during this difficult time.