Robert Lopez

ROBERT LOPEZ, 81, a resident of Pojoaque, passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2016. It is such a gift to leave this earth and know that your life had true meaning of love and purpose; impacting not only your loved ones but all others that crossed your path. It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Robert Lopez, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, step-father and friend on March 8, 2016, in Pojoaque, NM. Born March 3, 1935 to Cresencio and Refugito Lopez, Robert was the 4th of 11 children.  He is joining his beloved parents, brothers and sisters, Isadias Lopez, Agapita Quintana, Manuel Lopez, Cresencio (Sonny) Lopez, Martha George and Manny Lopez and his son, Ronald Lopez and grandson Gilbert Lopez.  He is survived by his sisters and brother, Aurelia Hiteman, Stella Gonzales (Eloy), Lupe Jaramillo (Julian) and Alfonso Lopez (Sylvia); the mother of his children Lusita Raybon and his children Kathy and Milton Carroll, Robert and Renee Lopez, Belinda and David Vigil, Sally Abella, Margaret and Bart Ortiz and Joseph C. and Sherry Lopez.  He also leaves 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren on which he cherished. It is also important to mention his extended family, Ruby Whiting, Tony Garcia, Geno Garcia and Linda Bernal - adding 9 additional grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  Robert had a strong work ethic and took pride in the local community being one of the founders of the Pojoaque Valley Fire Department.  Spending over 50 years volunteering, and at one point carried the title of “Fire Chief”. He had a long time career working for the New Mexico State Highway Department, Arrow Gas and owned his own tractor business before celebrating his retirement in 2000. He enjoyed hunting with his sons and farming; and always extended a hand to his neighbors near and far.  He happily donated his time and money to special causes not only to the local community but also many organizations he was passionate about. What soothes our very heavy hearts is to know he possessed that gift of purpose and was rich with love. A rosary will be recited on Monday, March 14, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Pojoaque. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Pojoaque. The family of Robert Lopez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477 – www.devargasfuneral.com

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