Valentin Chavira Lopez

Valentin Chavira Lopez

November 17, 1944 – March 31, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Valentin “Val” Lopez, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, who left us on March 31, 2025, at the age of 80. His spirited personality, deep love for the country, and passion for music were hallmarks of his life.

Born on November 17, 1944, in Chihuahua, Mexico, Valentin moved to the United States in the 1960s to begin his career as a rancher in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. It was here that his two daughters were born. His love for ranching and the cowboy way of life became a central part of who he was. He later moved to Nebraska, where he continued his ranching life in Thedford and Curtis. During this time, his youngest daughter was born. Valentin’s skill in working with horses and cattle, along with his tireless work ethic, were traits that defined him.

In his retirement, Valentin found peace in Maywood, Nebraska, where he tended to his beautiful flowers and a garden full of watermelons. Each day began with his favorite canciones (songs), filling his mornings with warmth and joy. Even as the years passed, his love for music and his cherished routines continued to bring him comfort. He also enjoyed some quiet moments watching Judge Judy on his television, a simple pleasure that always brought a smile to his face.

After a recent cancer diagnosis, Valentin moved to Espanola, New Mexico, where he resided with his nieces until his passing. His strength and resilience remained evident until the very end.

Valentin was preceded in death by his parents, Teodore Lopez and Aurora Chavira; step-mother Avelina Acosta and a sister, Lidia Lopez and brother in law Guerrero Mendoza

He is survived by his daughters, Diane (Joe Gerald) Maes, Elvira (Julio) Rocha and Teresa Floyd; grandsons, Nicolas, Remmy, Elijah and Josiah; granddaughters, Julyssa and Evangeline. Siblings; Manuel Lopez (Eufrasina Corral), Herlinda Lopez a; nieces, Hilda, Guadelupe, Silvia, Chayo, Estela, Oralia, Martha, and Aurora; nephews, Jesus Manuel, Guerrero, Abelardo, Valente, Ramon and Narciso and many other extended family members and friends.

A Public Viewing will take place at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM, on April 9, 2025, at 9:30 AM until 10:15 AM. Mass to follow at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, NM, at 10:30 am. 

Per Valentin’s last request, his ashes will be scattered in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, later this summer. He wished for his final resting place to be in the beautiful mountains of Colorado where his journey began.

The family of Valentin Lopez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. www.devargasfuneral.com 505-747-7477