Luis was born in Santa Barbara to Ramon Zarate and Teresa Angel, the 4th of 8 children in the family. As a 2nd generation native of Santa Barbara, he attended Franklin Elementary, Santa Barbara Junior High and graduated from Santa Barbara High School in 1973. Luis enjoyed fishing with his brothers and sisters and loved treasure hunting various sites for old bottles and other relics. He especially liked helping other people. At an early age he began caregiving an older Montecito couple, Mr. and Mrs. Keller. He lived part time with them from age 10 to 18. After graduation he worked in a dental lab before joining the United States Army serving from 1973 to 1976. He was first stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, served overseas in Germany and was honorably discharged in St. Louis Missouri. His duty was in the 89th Medical Detachment. While serving in the military Luis was trained as a Dental Prosthetic Technician, a trade that served him well through civilian life. After the Army he moved to Lake Elsinore and took care of an elderly lady Luella Farquharson for many years until her death. He continued his dental lab business throughout his life helping many low income families and individuals until his death. Luis was happy with his life there and had many friends. He loved decorating his house, especially on Halloween and Christmas and was often hosting parties where all were welcome. He took in many stray cats. One of his special interests was with the Lake Elsinore Women's Garden Club where he won numerous ribbons for the flowers he entered in shows. In addition to gardening Luis liked to cook and travel. Mexico, Hawaii, Costa Rica and Alaska were among his favorite places. Luis was a very endearing, good natured person with a natural smile on his face. He had a great sense of humor and was always joking around. He had a heart of gold and trusted almost everyone. His health was good until a recent stroke which sadly shortened his life. He will leave a lasting impression on all that met him and will be truly missed. Luis loved life and his greatest love was for his family. He passed away surrounded by family and loved ones who were fortunate to express their love. Luis was preceded in death by his parents; Ramon Zarate and Teresa Angel and brothers; Pantaleon, Ramon Jr. and Alphonso. He is survived by his siblings; Clara, Robert, Jesus and Martha and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rosary 4/16/24 at 7pm

Funeral Mass 4/17/24 10am

Both at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. Interment will follow the mass at Calvary Cemetery