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José Leiva Obituary
August 19, 1938 - February 1, 2023
José Luis Leiva, 84, slipped away peacefully February 1 in San Francisco. Born in Guatemala, he was the son of Felix and Bertha Leiva. He received his teaching credential and engaged in local theater and radio theater in Guatemala City. His interest in anthropology and Maya history led to two years as a technician/art assistant at the Maya ruins of Tikal.
Luis came to San Francisco in his early twenties, earning a scholarship to study Theater Arts and Anthropology at the University of San Francisco. He gained lifelong friends and experience in theater performance and design within the USF College Players, graduating in 1971, by which time he had married Catherine (Kate) Stadler. He completed a Master of Fine Arts in design for the theater at Stanford University in 1975. He and Kate welcomed daughter Maya in 1980.
Luis taught theater design and history at USF and CCSF for 35 years. His play, "Chicle," was produced at USF and CCSF, and he directed several plays at CCSF. In retirement, he designed for plays in small local venues.
Luis drew/painted constantly and effortlessly, turning many of his whimsical paintings into greeting cards. In 1975 he led several extensive tours of Maya sites in Central America. With Kate he hosted annual crafts events in their home for 25 years, as well as welcome gatherings for Fulbright international students. In retirement he continued to paint and enjoyed making fanciful fishing lures. Among his happiest times was a recent fishing trip with Maya on San Francisco Bay.
Along with Kate and Maya, Luis's sister Grace Leiva and dozens of nieces, nephews and cousins will hold him in their memories. His was a life well lived, loved, and laughed. At Luis's request, no memorial service will be held; a celebration of his life will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Global Pediatric Alliance or RAICES.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for José Leiva
Carlo DelConte
May 22, 2025
José was every bit like a father, a mentor, a teacher, an inspiration, a friend. I had the pleasure of working under him in 3 theatrical productions, both on stage and in the costume department and he played a huge role in my development as an actor and a human being. You will be missed hermano.
Mark Lyon (aka Mark Turck at USF)
December 22, 2023
I was fortunate enough to be a friend of Jose's while we were both students at The Univerity of San Francisco and I was greatly sadened to read of his passing. He was a wonderful, talented, highly intelligent and completely delightful person. I thought of him often over the years and so I wish I had tried to find a way to keep in touch with him.
Peter Donohoe
November 2, 2023
Jose,
I went with you on the Dr. Glynn Williams USF Anthropology field trip to the Los Altos, Jalisco, Mexico. I was there in 1969 & 1971. I think you were on the 1971 trip. Great memories. Rest in Peace, Jose.
Peter Donohoe
Gary Stevens
October 6, 2023
Luis and I shared a special bond, a common trust which began over 50 years ago. He was a man of honor. Happily we saw each other one last time two years ago and shared our thoughts silently. R.I.P.
Francesca Foster
March 2, 2023
I have great memories of Uncle Luis from when I was a young one (I will never forget his big bear hugs!). Uncle Luis was one of the sweetest and most peaceful people I've ever known. The world has lost a fine soul. Rest in peace Uncle Luis, I love you.
Paul Brichetto
February 28, 2023
Hi Luis, if you're listening on... I regret not having made your acquainance even though Kate, your wife, was my Aunt....hope things aree going well for you now.
Peter DiStéfano
February 26, 2023
Everyone who worked with him in the theatre will miss him. He contributed a lot to cultural awareness and the arts.
Fico & Joha Leiva
February 16, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Pamela Quyle
February 15, 2023
Such a lovely man. A good friend . He will be missed by many . Including me. He brightened my life with every visit. My condolences to Kate, Maya , and his loving family.
Hilda and Mark Barradas
February 15, 2023
Kate and Maya,
Mark and I are sending our love and prayers to you. We were honored to know Luis, his warm smile as he greeted you, the craft gatherings in your home, and sharing the joy in hearing Angela perform. May He Rest in Peace.
Fondly,
Hilda Mark Barradas
Dave and Nicole Carney
February 14, 2023
Jose was a good friend, mentor and Godfather (to our third son, Matthew). He was extremely talented and freely shared his talents with anyone wanting to learn. Stories about Jose will be shared in our family for years to come. Condolences to Kate and Maya.
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