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Sally Lopez Obituary

Sally Ortega Lopez

Resident of San Jose

Jan. 17 1947-Sept. 10, 2010

Passed gracefully on Sept 10, 2010. Sally touched the lives of many with her gentle spirit shy smile & loving ways. She grew up laughing & enjoying life in Santa Clara with her Mom Dad & 5 sisters. Santa Clara is where she met the love of her life Richard Lopez. The two married & enjoyed every minute of their life together including spoiling their children, Jennifer & Richard. Mom, we miss you and love you, but we find comfort in knowing you will be reunited with Dad, holding hands & dancing together again. A celebration of life is planned Sept 16th 7:00PM at Lima Family Mortuary Santa Clara.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Sep. 15, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Sally Lopez

Sponsored by Richard & Jennifer Lopez.

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Lena Duitz

October 1, 2010

My sister Sally, I miss her dearly and wish I could have had more time with her. We enjoyed going out together, driving all over and to Sandy’s house for board games, to read magazines and so, so much more. Sally was quiet, but so funny and witty it was great to be around her.

Everyone knew she was a giving person and she would show it and live it. If I needed her she would come without hesitation, without question, with inner strength and with love. She knew I would be there for her too because it was always our way, our understanding. Being so close gave us the strength to face the challenges that would come. That’s how it should be, that’s how it was.

She enjoyed working, loved her friends there and they all loved her too.

Sally’s face would light up when she talked about her children, clearly they were her everything. How wonderful for Richard and Jennifer to be so loved by someone so special.

My Sally, I miss her and I am so grateful that I had such a fun and loving sister for so long.
May God bless her beautiful soul.

Joey Oliveira

September 22, 2010

Hi Richard,

I just wanted to express the Oliveira family's sympathy and deep condolences to you and your family in this time of mourning. We all know that Sally Lopez was a great mother to you, and Jennifer, and a wonderful wife to your Dad, Richard Sr. From what I remember from your mother, she was always there to make sure we all had fun. If you should need anything during this time of need, the Oliveira family is there for you and your family.

We know you and Jennifer loved your Mom very much.

Sincerely,
Joey Oliveira

Richard Lopez

September 21, 2010

Thank you again to everyone for sharing your great stories about my Mom and for attending her services. It brings a smile to my face to hear how she touched soo many peoples lives and that soo many people could see what a wonderful person she was. She loved you all.

Phil Fouts

September 18, 2010

Yes Richard, you are right…your mom was loved and respected by many. I had the great joy and honor of knowing her for many years. I first met her when she was the unit clerk for her sister Linda and me when she came to work for SSA. Sally and I both went our separate ways in the Agency but always seemed to be brought together every few years, and we would catch up on the passage of time. When she moved to the Villages we were both excited about seeing each other in retirement. I will miss having her as neighbor and spending time out here over a cup of coffee talking about life and family. You have read others speak to her beautiful personality, her smile, her sweetness, her professionalism, and the joy she brought. I will always remember the pride and happiness her children brought her. I feel blessed to have known Sally Lopez and to have shared a friendship with her.

September 17, 2010

My Sister Sally was the middle child of six sisters. She was quiet & kind, but... still waters run deep and at times you wouldn't want to go up against her, especially when it came to family. For family, Sally represented love, but she could be fierce. She had a big heart and would always help others even if it was a determent to her. But, she was not perfect, as none of us are. She was quite simply my older sister who taught me to spell "Wed nes day" and the only one who had the patience to help me learn to tie my shoelaces. She loved both of my daughters and they both knew it. Even though she was afraid of dogs, she learned to love my dog unconditionally while we lived with her, and he loved her and was protective to the end. She took a piece of my heart with her when she left us. I find comfort in that. Sally was not amazing with her ill health, she was not amazing in how she dealt with it; instead she handled it all with grace and dignity. I remain in awe of her. When I was little she always called me her "Angel" and now Sally is my Angel. With great love, your little sister, Jeanne

Diana Weir

September 16, 2010

The world was just a better place with Sally in it. I will always remember Sally for her kindness, warmth and humor. Many condolences to the family.

Shonda Avery

September 16, 2010

I am praying for Salley's family that they may find comfort during this time difficult time. As for Sally, she will be fine. She is probably setting things straight by organizing and giving assistance on the "Highway to Heaven" phone lines. They must have needed some computer help up there. We will all miss her very much.

Lawrence Gallegos

September 16, 2010

Wish of offer my sincere condolences to Sally's family. As has been written by all, she was great at helping us navigate through our sometimes complicated and confusing computer systems; Yet she was always cheerful and available no matter how small or large the problem was. More importantly, Sally was a very nice person!

September 16, 2010

"Words of Thought"
When I read the agency announcement regarding our Dear Sally, I felt so sad and got teary eyes. People leave imprints of who they were. I can say she has left many memories of those moments that she helped us with our computers. She had so much knowledge that she shared with us and provided excellent support to Information Systems. She will truly be missed by all those she touched with her help. She was a very patient, kind and loving person to us. God Bless you Sally for being a special you. My sincere condolences' to all her sisters and family. Rose Presencion

September 16, 2010

Sally, christy perez, rose bacani and I used to share info, gossip and stuff on a regular basis. we were a crazy bunch and had a special nickname for sally (SALITA). we giggled and laughed and had fun in a very serious place trying to help kids. I still miss christy and will truly miss (salita). my memories will last and I know they are happy, healthy and at peace (maybe giggling).

My sympathy goes out to her family.

Sincerely,

jerry shall

Brande Castro

September 16, 2010

Sally was a beautiful person, heart and soul. I am very grateful to have the pleasure of knowing her. Sally will be missed.

Kathi McArthur

September 16, 2010

I feel very blessed to have known Sally. Her kind and loving heart will not be forgotten.

Lori Manning

September 16, 2010

Sally was such a familiar voice to me as she helped me navigate through CWS all these years! I will always remember her patience and warm spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Valerie Southard

September 16, 2010

My condolences to Sally's family and friends. When I would send out an SOS phone call and it went to Sally, just her voice made me feel lighter and brighter. Though we worked in virtural space (with her in one building and me in another), I would picture her smile and twinkling eyes as she helped me with my problem, and I just had to smile through the process. What a wonderful person Sally was.

Maria S

September 16, 2010

I was saddened to hear of Sally's illness, and even sadder to hear of her death. If the person at the Help Desk could not help, I would ask: "Is Sally there?", and she could always figure things out. If she was not available when I called, I'd say: "Can you have Sally call me?", and she always returned my call. She did not seem to mind that I asked for her when no one else could solve the problem My sympathies to her family, especially her children.

Fiona Moore

September 15, 2010

My prayers and thoughts are with the Lopez family through this difficult time

Nue Golde

September 15, 2010

Sally always gave me the warmest hug when I would see her at RD's or the Friday Night Movies. I will never forget her. May God Bless the Family.

Bob Duitz

September 15, 2010

I love Sally. She was my favorite sister-in-law! She was an inspiration in life and in death. She was the type of person that cared about others and not herself. She will always be part of our Friday Night Movie Club with her glass of Chardonnay.

Joyce McEwen Crawford

September 15, 2010

Blessings of peace to the family. I enjoyed having worked with Sally and all the help she provided. Sally was always fun and full of energy. I am happy to have shared a moment of time with her.

September 15, 2010

I am so sorry to hear about "Sal" - she was a blessing to my Uncle Richard and our family. And, she was a special gift from God when she helped me through the day my Mom was in Compassion Care.... the world is a better place for having known Sal. Lo Siento Mucho.

Linda Loza

September 15, 2010

I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Sally, but spoke mostly on the phone with her. While she helped me with my computer problems we exchanged information on the best mexican restaurant or foods. I too would speak Spanish with her. She would laugh with me as I was always computer challenged. Adios Sally. My prayers and condolences to her family. ~ Joanne Mercado

Marie Peters

September 15, 2010

Aunty Sally- the BEST aunty anyone could ever ask for. There are far too many good memories to list, but trust that I do remember them! I'm thankful that she was a part of my life and that she got to meet my girls. I'm even more thankful that she is at peace and reunited with Uncle Richard!

Marie Robertson

September 15, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. Sally was a joy to get on the phone when calling the helpdesk. Thank you Sally for being the person that you were, I will miss you.

Richard Lopez

September 15, 2010

Wow Mom, look at all of your friends!! Still makes me laugh to know the Mom who couldn't figure out a VCR or an Atari was the best of the best when it came to I/T Help Desk!!So proud of you and all you accomplished! My inspiration, my push when I needed it & my endless source of love. Love you and Miss you!

Monique Lopez

September 15, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Sally at the Helpdesk. She was such a wonderful person and was always available to give a helping hand. I learned so much from her will miss her greatly. I always called her the "helpdesk mom" because she always took care of us and we all highly respected her. I will miss her.

Michael DiTore

September 15, 2010

I'm saddened to hear about Sally passing. My condolences to her family.

Michelle Getsla

September 15, 2010

To all of Sally's family and extended family and friends: Sally and I mostly knew each other in her capacity as a Help Desk contact. However, since I was a "frequent flyer," and Sally was most often the person who answered my call, we had an opportunity to become better acqainted in the eight years I've worked as a SSA unit support clerk for the Foster Care Bureau. Everything said by everyone else, included Mr. Lightbourne so exactly captures Sally. She will be sadly missed but always remembered and cherished. I am glad she and I had the opportunity to meet in person and establish more than just a Help Desk customer relationship. All my sincerest condolences and prayers for you all at this difficult time

Alice Valenzuela

September 15, 2010

Thank you for being you, the most kind-hearted, warm and friendliest person you are. Our customers loved you for they knew they were receiving the utmost service, but more....they gained a friend/colleague who cared about their work and what they were trying to accomplish. It was an honor to have you as a part of our Helpdesk team. Until we see each other again, the next "decaf, nonfat, vanilla late' is on me. I will miss you dearly.

Alice
SSA Helpdesk

Shaun Fought

September 15, 2010

I very much enjoyed working with Sally at the Help Desk. She was quick to laugh and very patient, both traits I very much appreciated and admired.

Juleen Montoya

September 14, 2010

I knew Sally for about 4 years as not only the mother of my friend, but as a mother who looked after me too. The first time I met her, she gave me the biggest hug and laughed when I called her Mom. She would always have a smile for us and would encourage us to have fun. I will miss her greatly and remember her fondly. Love you Mom.

Divya Shah

September 14, 2010

It was my great joy to have worked with sally. I will never forget her smile, big laugh, and her sense of humar. My thoughts and parayers are with Lopez family. God bless

Andree Patron

September 14, 2010

Sally was the light of IS when I was in the dark about something with my computer. She was always helpful! She will be missed. My prayers go out to her five sisters, son and daughter, and extended family.

Alice Turney

September 14, 2010

I first met Sally when we attended 3 weeks of CalWIN training together in 2005. As I got to know Sally, I really enjoyed her company and her warm positive attitude. My heart goes out to her family. She will be truly missed.

M. Ramirez

September 14, 2010

She always guided me with computer issues with patiente and a smile. It was better when she could be reached immediately at the old technology building. I told her once that I would hire her to be my manager at the non-profit office I wanted to open soon. I had the pleasure to meet Richard when I lived in Newark where he worked at that time and could not hold back to let him know what a great person she was. We are sadden by her loss and please accept my condolences.

Dennis Lorenzini

September 14, 2010

Sally sent Dolph and I all the tickets she could not fix herself. She made us better techs and, in the process, we grew to know and kove her work ethic and lovely personality. We all pooled our skills and knowledge to make each other better professionals. Knowing Sally was a special treat and she will be missed by all her clients. She is in my prayers daily because she was truly one of a kind. I wish to offer my condolences to her family and the many friends we shared at SSA.

Cecelia Tribble

September 14, 2010

September14,2010
I am very sorry to learn the passing of Sally, She was a very kind person and always caring and tried to solve my computer problems. May God bless the family.

Anelda Qualtieri

September 14, 2010

Like everyone else, I am sadden by Sally's passing. She was a very kind and unassuming person..always ready to help. There was something soothing in her voice that made you feel better. I hope her family can hear her "voice"and be soothed.

Frank Azad

September 14, 2010

I am truly shocked to hear that Sally is no longer with us! This is a big loss for the agency! Sally was one of the most helpful, knowledgeable, courteous, and pleasant members of SSA Helpdesk. She was always willing to assist in resolving every question. Whenever I got connected to Sally, I knew that I am in good hands. I will keep her in my thoughts and prayers.

Marilyn Hellman

September 14, 2010

Sally Lopez is the type of person someone does not forget once you meet her. I don't recall how many years ago that I met Sally; but that very first time I did, she became one of my "go to" whenever I needed help on my computer. Sally's mannerism I can only describe as being very sweet, warm, humble, knowledgeable and extremely helpful. Condolences and blessings to her family.

John Wu

September 14, 2010

I am thankful to have worked with Sally for so many years. She was very friendly and helpful when I started working at county even though I was probably wasting her time with all sorts of questions about the department and helpdesk. I'm so glad to have met her, and she will be missed.

Gam Pham

September 14, 2010

It was a pleasure to knew and worked with someone like Sally! She always have a smile, kindest, easy to talk and work with. I will be truly missed her. My prayers with the Lopez's Family!

September 14, 2010

It was a pleasure to worked with someone like Sally! She always have a smile, kindest, easy to talk and to work with. Sally will truely be missed!, My prayers are with Sally's Family.

Gam Pham, San Jose, CA

September 14, 2010

It's my great honor to work and know Sally for 5 years. Her warm beautiful smile and laughter are something is hard to forget. She's fond to work with and she'll be missed greatly... Julie L. - SSA

Lorraine Moore

September 14, 2010

Sally was my favorite IS person. She was extremely helpful. Sally always provided assistance with a smile on her face and she had a great sense of humor. When we started using remote access for IS, I really missed Sally's presence but started calling her directly when I needed IS help. I am very sad to hear of her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved one. Everyone who knew Salled loved her!

September 14, 2010

I was so deeply shocked & saddened when I heard of Sally's passing. Sally & I go way back. She was my go-to person whenever I had PC questions or problems& she was always able to solve my PC problems & if she couldn't she would always follow up & get it done! She was an expert in her field. I will miss her so much. I pray for God's comfort & peace on her family. She will be truly missed!

Margit David

September 14, 2010

Getting Sally at the Help Desk was like hitting the jackpot. She was always so friendly and incredibly helpful. It was especially great at Technology when she'd respond in person. I was very fond of Sally and will miss her. May her memory always be a blessing.

Han Lau

September 14, 2010

No matter what changes, Sally is always in my heart with love and respect. Will never forget the wonderful time we had together. Thanks so much for what you did for me, the agency and the world....

Shoran Singh

September 14, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with the Lopez family during this time of great sorrow. Sally will will deeply missed.
Thanks for being a great teacher Sally.

Anna Lopez

September 14, 2010

Sally was always a blessing I met her in 1994,I have always loved her smile and laugh, I will miss her so much.

Christophe Nguyen

September 14, 2010

My sincere condolences.

Isabell DeAnda

September 14, 2010

Sally was great at her job, she help so many of us out of problems of our own creation... I miss Sally so much, her sweet nature, her wonderful sense of humor. Sally is the person I looked to whenever I needed help or if I needed to feel that things were going to be ok. I miss checking in with her...seeing what she is reading. Sally talked about her niece, this funny girl that she would say that I reminded her of. I loved the idea that I was like someone in her family. Sally, that girl...

Patricia Brickman

September 14, 2010

It saddens me deeply to learn of Sally's passing. She was my "go to" girl and got things done - and always with a smile in her voice or on her face. She was from an era of good work ethics, professionalism, and a fabulous team player. Sally will be greatly missed by many, many friends. To her family I am so very sorry for your loss.

Kathryn Pedroza

September 14, 2010

Sally was always so pleasant to work with. Even when I thought I had the "dumbest" questions, she always had the patience of an angel and would encourage me and walk me through whatever I needed help with. I've missed her and will miss her terribly. God Bless Sally's family through this difficult time.

September 14, 2010

I'm truely saddened to learn Sally passed away. I've known Sally since I started working at the Department and she was a great help to me. I will miss her, Javier Ramirez

Rose Bacani

September 14, 2010

I was deeply saddened to hear we lost Sally, Salita as I sometimes called her. I knew and worked with Sally for 24 years. She's the nicest, sweetest, patient, and helpful person I have known. She always have a smile on her face whenever I see her. I will miss her very much. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Bea Leal

September 14, 2010

Sally may you rest in God's Peace and thank you for your wonderful service to our agency. There will never be another to fill your "graceful and generous" shoes.

Marsha Earle

September 14, 2010

It is with sincere saddness that I write this note in honor of Sally. We are once again reminded of how fragile life is. We have lost a dear colleague and a warm and personable human being.

Debra Madrid

September 14, 2010

I am sorry to hear of your loss and may God bless you and your family during this time. Sally was a warm, friendly, and caring person. I am glad that I was given the opportunity to work with her.

Debra Madrid

Hung Le

September 14, 2010

In the last 10 years working with Sally, her smile, humor and a tall hot Starbuck coffee in the morning shall be missed at the Julian office.

Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Kathleen Stahr

September 14, 2010

I started working for DFCS 15 years ago, and sat across from Sally and Georgeann (the "original HelpDesk"!)... they taught me what it is to have fun at work! She always had a smile for me... and it didn't take much to find something to laugh at! I will miss her greatly!

Hung Le

September 14, 2010

In the last 10 years working with Sally, her smile, humor and especially a hot tall Starbuck coffee shall be missed at the Julian.

Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Judi Boring

September 14, 2010

Sally was a very special person. She was always enthusiastic and responsible about her family, her job and her life. She was a strong lady who weathered some tough times like the loss of her very dear husband and mother but seemed to survive by caring about everyone else in her world. She was bright and eager to learn and could always be counted on to be optimistic and take on new challenges - like learning a whole new career with computerization and the CWS/CMS help desk. She and I worked together for nearly twenty years and she added so much to my life. I know that she will be greatly missed by the great many of us who knew and loved her.

Somala

September 14, 2010

I've worked with Sally since 2000. She was always happy and kind. She was very knowledgable and was always willing to take her time to help figure out a problem. I will miss her smiles.

Hung Le

September 14, 2010

In the past 10 years working with Sally, her smile, humor and especially a hot tall Starbuck coffee shall be misssed for all time at the Julian.

Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Cassandra Ray

September 14, 2010

I had a loss of words when I read the message of the passing of Sally. She was my go to help desk person. She always help me fixed the problem and if she couldn't she would make sure she hooked me up with someone who could. Her friendly attitude is truly going to be missed and I will keep her family in my prayers.

Jann Rongstad

September 14, 2010

I had the good fortune to meet Sally about 2 years ago. When she discovered that I loved reading almost as much as she did, she would always arrive at work with a new book for me. For the last several years, when she knew I was going on vacation she would bring me large stacks of reading material! She was a wonderful, warm-hearted person whom I will really miss...

Zena La

September 14, 2010

I knew and worked with Sally for 12 years. I still remember the really first time I talked to her on June 1999. She didn't only share her skills with me, but with a big smile she encouraged me to "be stronger and just follow your dream..." Then, many times later we laughed and had good time with each other when we shared our skills. Thank you very much for your support and friendship. I am stronger now and still pursue my career with county. I really miss you. Love

September 14, 2010

My sincerest condolences to the Lopez family. I first met Sally back in 1991. Sally was a great person. She had this cutesy, loving personality about her that just made you feel good. In true Sally fashion, she used to tell me how proud she was of me and of others. I loved hearing her talk about her family, especially her sisters, it was a real sisterhood that I so envied. Thanks for everything Sally! Lisa Cruz

Annette Tanori & Family

September 14, 2010

Sally was a wonderful person who LOVED her job. She was a team player. She has a heart of gold. Sally will be truely missed by me and my family..

Beth-ann with her grandchildren, Evie & Noah

Beth-ann Arechiga

September 14, 2010

I loved Sally! What a wonderful sweet woman! What a great co-worker! I had a postcard on my desk that Sally admired. It pictured five beautiful Mexican women in traditional dress. She said it reminded her of her sisters. I gave it to her of course! Sally heard from me often and she was always there to help. She never had a 'bad' day that I can remember. I will miss her! Beth-ann Arechiga, PHN (San Jose, CA)

Anyika Nkululeko

September 14, 2010

I'm in shock! What a beautiful spirit to have had the opportunity to embrace! Not only did Sally do her job well at the HelpDesk, but she connected well with the people whom she helped. She truly made the HelpDesk a HelpDesk in more ways than one. May her spirit take sail on warm, smooth and calm seas as she takes flight to rejoin with her ancestors on the shores of the after life.

Steve Katz

September 13, 2010

I'm so very saddened to learn that we've lost Sally. She's been my favorite Help Desk person for a long while. I admired her intelligence and her wit, and most of all I just liked it when we crossed paths, and when we worked together. She was a special sort of person. There are too few like her. I shall miss her. My best to all of you.

Marla Johanning

September 13, 2010

Sally was always, professional, knowledgeable, helpful and humorous. I enjoyed working with her and I am saddened by her death. Marla Johanning

Zena La

September 13, 2010

I knew and worked with Sally for 12 years. I always remembered the really first time she helped me on June 1999. She didn't just help me with trouble shooting skills, but with a beautiful smile, she encouraged me " be stronger, Zena.... just follow your dream." Then, I can't not count how many times, we could laugh and share our skills on phones... Thank you Sally, I am stronger now and still pursue my career with county. Surely, I really miss you.....

Sunny Burgan

September 13, 2010

I was inordinately fond of Sally. I used to speak Spanish with her, and teased her to practice her Spanish more with me. She always had a smile on her face, and I always enjoyed any time I spent with her. The Help Desk just won't be the same without her. You could hear Sally's smile thhrough the phone, and her laugh was infectious.

Whitney Payne

September 13, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Sally for 5 years. She was truly the kindest, warmest and classiest lady I have had the honor of knowing. Her laugh always made me smile - more often than not, it made me laugh. I have missed her being here every day and now I cannot believe she won't be back. My heart goes out to her family. She talked of you often and the love and pride she felt for all of you was always evident. When she spoke of her kids, you never saw anyone light up the way she did. She touched us all and will be dearly missed.

Whitney

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