Gun Owners of America, Gun Owners Foundation, and Gun Owners California Mourn the Passing of Sam Paredes, Tireless Defender of the Second Amendment
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22, 2025
Sacramento, CA —With heavy hearts, Gun Owners of America (GOA), Gun Owners Foundation (GOF), and Gun Owners of California (GOC) announce the passing of Sam Paredes, a GOA Board Member, a leader within GOF, and the longtime Executive Director of Gun Owners of California (GOC). Sam’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to defending the Second Amendment and advancing the cause of liberty for future generations. He had a superhuman devotion to his family, and it was that devotion that drove him to reach even greater heights.
For more than four decades, Sam stood on the frontlines of the battle to preserve Americans’ right to keep and bear arms. As the Executive Director of Gun Owners of California, he tirelessly fought against some of the most aggressive anti-gun legislation in the country. His bold leadership and strategic vision made GOC a powerhouse for grassroots mobilization and a model for Second Amendment advocacy nationwide.
Sam’s impact also extended nationally through his work with Gun Owners of America and Gun Owners Foundation. As a GOA Board Member, he helped guide the “no-compromise” gun lobby in its mission to defend and restore the Second Amendment in Washington D.C. and across the states.
Through his role with GOF, Sam supported critical legal and educational efforts that continue to protect the rights of millions of law-abiding gun owners in courtrooms and communities across America.
“Sam Paredes was a warrior for freedom, but also a man of deep faith, and conviction,” said Tim Macy, President of Gun Owners of America. “He poured his life into the fight for liberty, and his legacy will live on through the countless activists and leaders he inspired. The entire GOA, GOF, and GOC family mourns his loss while rededicating ourselves to the mission he championed.”
“Sam believed in building a movement that could not be silenced in the courts or in the halls of government. He mentored activists, guided attorneys, and inspired countless others to take up the fight for liberty. Because of his tireless work, generations to come will inherit a stronger foundation for their rights,” said John Velleco, Executive Vice President of Gun Owners of America.
“Sam had a gift for connecting with people—whether it was a lawmaker, a reporter, or a gun owner at the grassroots. He became one of the most loved and trusted voices for the Second Amendment, and he used every opportunity to educate, inspire, and rally Americans to the cause of liberty. His voice will be deeply missed, but his message will continue to resonate,” said Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President for Gun Owners of America.
Sam will be remembered not only as a formidable defender of the Constitution but also as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. Those who knew him recall his warmth, his humor, and his ability to inspire courage in others.
GOA, GOF, and GOC honor Sam’s life with profound gratitude. While his passing leaves a void, his voice for liberty will echo for generations to come.
Funeral and memorial service details will be announced in the coming days.
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Author: fbullgunowners
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