Eugene Edward Valdez

Eugene Edward Valdez, 74, of Upland, California, died peacefully on April 29, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 27, 1952, in Lynwood, CA. Gene was an accomplished athlete at Lynwood High School, most notably in basketball, and graduated in 1970. He attended Compton Community College and then continued his education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) where he majored in psychology. He continued his education by attending the University of Southern California (USC) where he obtained his master’s in business administration (MBA).

Gene was a career banker but had numerous stints as a CFO and a consultant. He also worked as a business professor at Chaffey College and Oak Valley College during his life. Gene was married twice in his life; the first of which brought into the world his beloved daughter Laurel. Gene met the love of his life Anne Segura in 1986 in Corona. Much like Gene, Anne was a career banker. Love bloomed, and the two were married. In the process, Gene gained two more beloved daughters, Julie and Michelle. The family eventually settled in Upland, CA in 1989, where they have lived ever since. They welcomed two beloved sons, Dominic in 1990 and Zachary in 1993.

Gene was an avid tennis player. From college to post retirement, he was often found at the tennis courts. He loved basketball and was an ardent lakers fan. He even coached his children in basketball in their youth. Gene enjoyed spending time with his family including numerous family vacations to Hawaii, Mexico, San Diego and more.

In his spare time, Gene loved to go to the movies. He loved music, particularly jazz. He was a friend, a father, and a grandfather. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Consuelo Valdez and is survived by his loving wife of 38 years Anne, siblings Rosie and Yolanda. Nine surviving daughters and sons: Julie and Ryan, Michelle and Nick, Laurel, Dominic and Jennifer, and Zachary and Pratyusha. Plus eight grandchildren: Logan, Rylie, Arya, Lincoln, Emberlee, Daniel, Knox, and Desiree.

Gene will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.