Louie Quesada Lopez

Louie Quesada Lopez was born on August 24, 1940, in Merced, California, to Josephine Quesada and Sal Reyes. He was the eldest of his siblings, a role that shaped his character and sense of responsibility from a young age. When tragedy struck the family and his mother was involved in a fatal accident, Louie stepped in without hesitation, helping to raise his younger siblings with love, patience, and unwavering dedication.

On July 23, 2025, Louie was called home to be with our Lord and Savior. He passed peacefully at CPMC Mission Bernal Hospital in San Francisco, surrounded by those who loved him most, his devoted partner, David McCrady; his loving sister, Rebecca Maravilla; his lifelong best friend, Paul Lee; and his niece, Josephine Smallwood.

Louie found his calling early in life as a barber. In his early twenties, he honed his craft and became widely known for his precision, artistry, and warm personality. His career took him to both San Francisco and Los Angeles, where his talents and charisma attracted a devoted clientele. While working in Los Angeles, Louie treasured the opportunity to style the hair of world-famous musicians, including the iconic Elvis Presley and the legendary Little Richard, memories he held dear for the rest of his life. Later, at the Handerly Hotel in San Francisco, he continued to be a sought-after barber, always taking time to connect with his clients beyond the chair.

Louie’s life was rich with adventure. He had an insatiable love for travel, journeying across the globe. He created a lifetime of memories in faraway destinations, and for several years, Louie even called Australia home. His world travels deepened his appreciation for culture, style, and fine living, qualities that became hallmarks of who he was.

Those who knew Louie will remember him as a man who lived life with elegance and joy. He loved the holidays, whether spent with family or among his closest friends, and he delighted in creating warm, welcoming gatherings. He enjoyed dancing, visiting casinos, savoring fine dining, and catching up with the people he loved. Louie was always impeccably dressed, “dressed to the nines,” as those who knew him would say, taking great pride in his appearance and encouraging others to enjoy the finer things in life.

His faith was the foundation of his being. Louie was a man of faith, deeply rooted in his belief in love, compassion, and generosity. He treated his nieces and nephews with special care, making each one feel uniquely valued and loved. To Louie, friends were not just friends, they were family. He built and maintained lifelong relationships, offering encouragement, laughter, and support to all who were blessed to know him.

Louie was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Josephine Quesada; father, Sal Reyes; sister, Ramona Gonzalez; and brother, Joe Laurian. He is survived by his partner David McCrady, loving siblings, Rebecca Maravilla (John), Ernie Hernandez, and Jerry Pineada (Helen), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Louie’s life was a testament to living fully, loving deeply, and walking in faith. His presence brought joy, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be filled. We take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and embraced in the eternal love of God.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7