Arthur Lopez

Arthur Salomon Lopez, 75, of Espanola, New Mexico died Sunday, September 23, 2018 at St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Santa Fe due to a fatal heart attack. He was surrounded by his family as he peacefully left us. Born in Rio Chama, Art graduated from Espanola Valley High School and shortly after he enlisted in the United States Army and was a Veteran of the Vietnam War. After the war Art worked as a Machinist at the Rocky Flats Nuclear Weapons Plant in Arvada, Colorado for 16 years. He retired from the Army National Guard in 2002. Art was a true patriot and advocate for all veterans through several organizations such as the VFW, DAV, The American Legion and The Vietnam Veterans of America. Art was also a part of the Espanola Veterans Memorial Wall from its inception to its completion, and volunteered his time in many projects until recently becoming ill. Preceded in death by his parents, Abenicio and Ernestina Lopez, Espanola, NM; his sisters, Celina and Maria Lopez, Espanola, NM, brothers Anselmo Lopez, Roswell, NM, and Jake Lopez, Las Cruces, NM. He is survived by his loving wife, Lolita M. Lopez, Espanola, NM; his brother Ruben, Espanola, NM; his sister Irene Beatrice (Richard), Espanola, NM; his children Ryan A. (Nancy) Lopez, Pueblo, CO; his daughter Iris N. Lopez-Vazquez, Pueblo, CO; his children Michelle (Toby) Gallegos, San Luis, CO; Jimmie L. Romero, Rio Rancho, NM; his grandchildren Isabel & Shane Lopez, Pueblo, CO; Conrad and Aaron Gallegos, San Luis, CO; Amber and Trinity Romero, Rio Rancho, NM; and Great grandchildren, Noah and Joseph Gallegos, San Luis, CO. Art had many nieces, nephews and godchildren that he loved equally and unconditionally and was very proud of his entire family. A Rosary will be prayed on Thursday, September 27, 2018 at 6:30 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Espanola. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 28, 2018 at 10:30 am. Burial will follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.