Cortlyn Jimmy Synstelien
Cortlyn Jimmy Synstelien passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, at the age of 67, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 6, 1958, in Harbor City, California, to Josephine Mary and Cortlyn Ordean Synstelien. Raised in San Pedro, California, he attended 15th Street School and Dana Middle School before graduating from San Pedro High School, class of ‘76. Cortlyn spent most of his life in San Pedro and was also a resident of Cathedral City, California, Stanley, New Mexico, and Desert Hot Springs, California.
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jesse Synstelien; his parents; and his sister, Julie Synstelien.
Cortlyn is survived by his devoted daughter, Sara Synstelien; his steadfast son, Sam (Justine) Synstelien; his cherished grandchildren, Cyrus and Charlotte Synstelien; his loving sister, Linda Thiedeman; his faithful brothers, Jerry and Johnny (Sue) Synstelien; his treasured nieces and nephews, Danell, Steven, Brian, Lynn, Matthew, Nick, Courtney, and Shereese; as well as many extended family members and dear friends, especially his dog, Stevie. He would want his family to remember, "We are Synsteliens—we bend, we don't break."
Cortlyn dedicated much of his working life to the Port of Los Angeles. He began his career as a tankerman before becoming a tugboat deckhand, then a mate, and eventually working his way up to captain—a profession that reflected his strength, skill, and resilience. He often described the job as "99 percent boredom and one percent sheer terror." He took great pride in his work on the harbor and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.
A talented and versatile craftsman, Cortlyn could build or fix just about anything. He was a man of many interests and enjoyed trips to the casino, watching horse races, listening to music, and playing a variety of musical instruments. He even created his own instruments, including his saguaro drum. Above all else, he loved his family deeply and cherished every opportunity to be with his children. His love for them was constant and unwavering. A man of faith, Cortlyn believed in Jesus Christ and found strength and hope in his relationship with the Lord throughout his life.
Cortlyn will be remembered for the simple moments that meant so much to those who loved him—his late-night phone calls, his quick sense of humor, and the laughter he shared so freely. He had a remarkable way of bringing a smile to those around him. Although he is no longer with us, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 870 W. 8th Street, San Pedro, California. Burial at Green Hills Memorial Park will follow the Mass.
Paul Andre Roberge 1962 ~ 2026
Paul Andre Roberge, 64, passed away on May 26, 2026, following an extended decline in health.
Born in Ontario, California, on January 28, 1962, Paul moved with his family to Palm Desert in 1973. He was the youngest of five children born to Lillian Anne Watkins Roberge and Lawrence James Roberge. A lifelong tech enthusiast, Paul began studying and working with computers in his late teens. He spent the latter part of his career dedicated to IT services, working with the firm Synergy at the Augustine Casino in Indio.
Paul was a man of distinct passions. He had a wry sense of humor, a deep love for stand-up comedy, and was a fervent supporter of his favorite sports teams. Many of his happiest moments were spent outdoors, embarking on adventures in his beloved Toyota FJ, or vacationing surrounded by his closest friends and family.
Shane Michael Morgan Tepa
In Loving Memory of Shane Michael Morgan Tepa
8/22/1981 ~ 3/27/2026
Shane Michael Morgan Tepa, born in Michigan in 1981, passed away in 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, intellect, and meaningful accomplishment. Shane was known for his sharp mind, strong character, and deep pride in all he achieved throughout his life.
A graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1999, Shane went on to pursue higher education at Boston University and later earned his MBA from Harvard, accomplishments he held with great pride. His dedication and drive led him to become a successful business owner, reflecting both his ambition and determination.
Shane was the beloved son of Kim Morgan, the biological son of John Wakefield, and the adopted son of Douglas Morgan, each of whom played a meaningful role in his life and journey.
Beyond his professional achievements, Shane will be remembered for the way he connected with others. He was a loyal and devoted husband to Gerard Morgan Tepa, sharing a life built on love and partnership. He also shared an unbreakable bond with his best friend, Nuha Kadri, whose friendship meant the world to him. He held a special place in his heart for his cousin, Doreen Zimmerman, whose connection to Shane was one of love and family.
Shane’s intelligence was matched by his warmth and presence. He carried himself with pride, yet never lost his ability to care deeply for those around him. His laughter, insight, and unwavering loyalty will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Though his time here was far too short, Shane’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the relationships he cherished, and the example he set.
Forever in our hearts.
Miguel "Mike" Sotelo 1925 ~ 2026
Miguel “Mike” Sotelo passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family in Bermuda Dunes, California. He was born on May 20, 1925, in Livingston, California, and lived a remarkable life spanning 100 years.
A proud veteran of World War II, Mike served in the United States Army in Alaska. Following his service, he settled in the Coachella Valley, where he met the love of his life, his wife Sally. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised four children.
Mike worked as a construction laborer for many years and took great pride in his hard work and dedication. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family. He had a deep love for music, especially mariachi, and found great joy in family gatherings. Mike was a natural storyteller who loved sharing his life experiences and adventures with those around him.
He was a proud patriot, a devoted family man, and a source of strength and wisdom to all who knew him. His presence will be deeply missed.
Mike is survived by his daughters, Margaret (Art) Valdez and Mary (Ray) Fraijo; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sally; his son, Mike; his daughter, Lori; his grandchildren, Paul and Elaine; as well as two brothers and four sisters.
Mike leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a lasting legacy of love. He will live on forever in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.
