Salvador Elias "Solly" Sanders

Salvador Elias "Solly" Sanders, 91, born on August 25, 1934, in Fremont, CO, United States, passed away July 19, 2026. He resided in Long Beach, CA at the time of his passing. Arrangements are under the care of Forest Lawn, Cypress, CA. Sal was son of Crespina Marie and Jack Sanders, and the brother of Caroline. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Caroline, and his nephew Tony.

Sal was laid to rest on Thursday August 13, 2026, with full military honors. The Patriot Guard Riders honored him by holding a flag line in his honor. His funeral services were attended by Father Cedric Starbuck of St Dominic's Chapel. A reception was held following his interment to honor and celebrate his life.

Sal was a proud Army Special Forces Green Beret and paratrooper who continued his military services in the Army National Guard Reserve. After his military career, he earned his law degree from Pepperdine University School of Law and spent many years as an attorney with the National Labor Relations Board. Upon retirement, he established a private legal mediation practice.

Family was at the heart of Sal's life. He loved gathering family and friends for pool parties, barbecues, dinners, and holidays, and he took pride in preserving and sharing his family history. He also had a creative spirit, enjoying drawing, writing poetry, and playing the piano. He passed on the importance of hard work, strength, and perseverance.

Sal is survived by his wife Joan; his three daughters Linda, Theresa Ann, and Cynthia Leona; his grandchildren, Dustin, Rachel, Hayley, Frankie, and Keaton; and his great-grandchildren, Charlie, Daphne, and Olivia. He is also survived by his niece, Cherrie Ann, and nephew David Arthur; numerous cousins and other extended family; and many dear friends. His legacy of service, family, creativity, and independence will continue through the generations who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Sal's memory to one of the following organizations:

• St Dominic's Chapel, Father Starbuck via Zelle or PayPal using 714-673-5552 or Fr_Starbuck@yahoo.com
• Down Right Bloom Collective via Zelle at drbcollective or info@drbcollective.org
• Los Huerfanos Animal Welfare Association via PayPal or Venmo using @loshuerfanosanimalwe under the "charities" tab