Leslie Sapadin Obituary
LESLIE ANN SAPADIN
January 24, 1956 - September 11, 2025
Leslie Ann Sapadin (nee Latimer), 69, passed away on September 11, 2025, in New Braunfels, Texas. Born on January 24, 1956, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, Leslie lived a life marked by intellect, adventure, and deep compassion.
Leslie's early years took her from West Virginia to Texas, where she graduated from Nazareth Academy in Victoria. Her academic journey continued at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned both a Bachelor of Science in Advertising and later returned for her Master of Business Administration. A proud and lifelong Longhorn, Leslie wore her UT senior ring alongside her wedding ring every day--a symbol of her enduring connection to the university that shaped so much of her life.
Fluent in English, Spanish, and Hebrew, Leslie possessed a sharp mind and a quick wit. After graduate school she accepted a role as a Marketing Manager at General Mills in Minneapolis. There she embraced the northern climate with humor and resilience--sharing stories of ice fishing on frozen lakes, skiing out of her garage to reach the corner store, and navigating the perils of black ice. While Minnesota winters were a challenge, she found joy in its vibrant summers.
Driven by a desire to serve others and explore the world more deeply, Leslie joined the United States Peace Corps after several years in corporate life. Assigned to Costa Rica for two years, she immersed herself fully--learning Spanish fluently and working closely with local communities on development projects. By the end of her service, she often said she even dreamed in Spanish.
Upon returning to Texas, Leslie settled in San Antonio where she served as Vice President of Marketing for the United Way of San Antonio. It was there that she met David--the love of her life. In 1994, shortly before their marriage, Leslie was diagnosed with an astrocytoma. With characteristic strength and determination, she underwent surgery and radiation treatment.
Together for over 25 years, Leslie and David shared a passion for travel that took them across continents--from Europe to Asia to Africa. Their journeys included visits to England, France, Poland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Russia, Finland, Portugal, Croatia, Jordan, Israel, India, Zimbabwe, Thailand--and many more destinations that enriched their lives with culture and connection.
In recent years Leslie faced renewed health challenges with grace and courage. After David's passing in June 2024, she was lovingly supported by lifelong friends and family who surrounded her with care during her final chapter.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Moore family of Dignity Care in New Braunfels and Hope Hospice for their compassionate support during Leslie's final days.
May Leslie's memory bring comfort to those who knew her and inspiration to all who hear her story--a life lived fully with purpose and heart. A Memorial Gathering will be held on September 21, 2025, from 1:30 pm until 4:00 pm. at the Dreeben Family Pavilion at Temple Beth-el 211 Belknap Place, San Antonio, Texas 78212.
Published by San Antonio Express-News on Sep. 16, 2025.