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Walter Lopez Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved brother, uncle, and friend, Walter K. Lopez. Walter left us suddenly on March 13, 2025, due to an unexpected illness, but he passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on June 7, 1952, in Socorro, New Mexico, Walter moved to Santa Fe at the age of eight, where he built a life filled with discipline, storytelling and an unshakable love for sports. He attended St. Francis Cathedral School and graduated from Santa Fe High School before earning his Journalism degree from New Mexico State University.
Walter's passion for writing and keen eye for detail led him to a distinguished career in journalism. He spent years as a sportswriter for The Santa Fe New Mexican newspaper before becoming managing editor at New Mexico Magazine, where his beloved column, One of Our Fifty is Missing, graced the final page of the publication. He later served as the editor for La Herencia magazine, preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of New Mexico. Walter also edited and wrote for the local horse racing publications Inside Racing and Southwest Inside Racing.
An avid sports enthusiast, Walter found boundless joy in horse racing, particularly live events, and followed all sports with the enthusiasm of an ardent fan. His annual trips to Las Vegas, Nevada, were not just vacations but traditions, filled with excitement, wit, and his signature appreciation for the thrill of the moment.
Walter was a man of keen observation, always taking in the world with a mix of curiosity, wisdom, and wry humor. His words carried weight, whether spoken in jest, in kindness, or with the stubborn conviction that made him who he was.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Salomon and Angie Lopez, and his brother, Patrick. Walter is survived by his devoted sister, Linda (Ed) DeBruyn, his brother, Mark (Catherine), along with his nieces and nephews, Eddie and Krystl DeBruyn; Ariana, Dean, and Nina Lopez; Bosco Lopez and DeAnza Paredes, along with numerous relatives and dear friends who will cherish his memory.
A Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Santa Fe, NM. The burial will take place Friday, April 4, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. at Rosario Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in Walter's memory to Scott's House, the community hospice and respite house where he spent his final days.
Walter's legacy lives on in the stories he told, the laughter he inspired, and the unwavering love he had for his family and friends. Though his absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Lopez
Del Jones
March 30, 2025
I worked with Walter on the sports desk at the Santa Fe New Mexican 1981-84. The time with him was too brief, but I looked him up a couple of times at New Mexico Magazine when I returned to Santa Fe for visits. Walter was funny, he liked to have pun contests, which he always won. I knew nothing about horse racing, but when I once went to Santa Fe Downs I took his column with me and bet $2 on every horse that he recommended. I left with $20. Thanks Walter for the friendship and the lunches at Tia Sophias. I can still hear your voice: "Now, Del...
Joe McCachren
March 29, 2025
Walter and I were friends at De Vargas Jr High and had fun times there. His dad would have us sell newspapers at the old 7-11 after mass. I have good memories of you, Walter. Rest in peace buddy.
Michael & Marian Peralta
March 27, 2025
We are so very sorry to learn of Walter's passing.
Michael has some very precious memories of when they were both growing up. He will always be in our hearts.
Jimmy Nickolatos
March 27, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss! Rest In Peace My Brother!
Salo Otero
March 26, 2025
RIP Walter Lopez, coworker at the New Mexican 1986-87. Condolences to family.
Lemyra DeBruyn
March 25, 2025
Walter was an extraordinary man and I've been proud to know him ever since my brother married his sister, Linda, the love of my brother's life.
Walter's legacy at the New Mexico Magazine was always a source of inspiration for me, and I loved bragging about him at every turn.
Walter's devotion to his family was love at its finest. He spared nothing in his support and passion to make things good for everyone.
You are one of the good ones gone too soon, Walter. May you have joy and peace being reunited with Patrick and your mom and dad.
We will miss you fiercely.
Stella Sandoval Sanchez
March 24, 2025
Linda & family, I worked with your dad at the Land Office many years ago. I am so sad to hear about Walter & Patrick. My prayers are with you & your families. God Bless you all.
Terry Lockhart
March 24, 2025
Linda and Extended Family
Our deepest heartfelt condolences on your loss of Walter. He was loved by our family and we will miss him tremendously. He was fun to be around and was kind and a great guy. We considered him family.
The Lockhart Family
Greg gibbs
March 24, 2025
I had not seen Walter K. In many, many years but I will always consider him my friend. He will be missed but all who had the opportunity to get to know him.
Gerry Armijo
March 23, 2025
My Sincere condolences go out to the Lopez family, Linda, Walter was a great guy. God Bless you at this time of need. RIP Walter K.
M. Ortega
March 23, 2025
My prayers and condolences to the family. May he rest in peace. Much respect to Walter K. He was a kind soul. Outstanding sports writer who will be missed.
Lisa M
March 23, 2025
I worked with Walter at New Mexico Magazine. He was a good man. We shared many laughs. May he rest in peace in God´s Grace.
Mike Maddox
March 23, 2025
I am so sorry to learn of Walter´s passing. I met Walter at Santa Fe Mid-High School when we were freshmen. Then we were part of the same group of SFHS grads at NMSU. He was one of the most quick-witted guys I ever knew. Loved reading his sports writing in the New Mexican and his later work at New Mexico Magazine. Thinkin´ of Walter brings me a tear and a smile.
Nan DeBruyn
March 23, 2025
I first met Walter in the Jockey Club at the Downs. I thought he was very intimidating. He sat down in his corner with his iced tea, racing form and program.
Then I got to know Linda and realized he was a very nice guy. He loved the horses. He loved his family.
Rest in peace, Walter. So many people miss you already.
Steve Waage
March 23, 2025
His life and work are a beautiful legacy. May his memory be a blessing.
Shirley Lyon Martin
March 23, 2025
I always knew if I was feeling down Walter would always make me laugh. He'll be missed by everyone. RIP Walter. See you on the other side.
Ernesto Rodriguez
March 23, 2025
Always smiling and kind.
PATRICK MCCACHREN
March 22, 2025
A former neighbor and friend. Go with God, rest in peace.
Marian Padilla VanderSys
March 22, 2025
Walter was one of a kind! He was my mother´s paperboy and she enjoyed his humor Walter always had informative and fun columns His smile and ready laugh will stay with me forever We worked at the state together and he was so much fun Rest in peace, Walter You will be missed
Renee & Art Chavez
March 22, 2025
We became good friends with Walter many years ago and he has always been one of the kindest, friendliest and funiest guys we are so glad to know. He was always so happy and we had many great conversations about current events, sports, and his travel plans for fun in Vegas. We will miss him lots and we will never forget our special and dear friend whom was like family to us. We love you and we'll miss you Walter
Patsy Culver
March 22, 2025
Walter was a character out of an old famous western book,right was right and wrong was wrong,a deal is in a handshake. His humor and wit never left you bored. His storytelling was mesmerizing and of course he was quick to make you feel like he knew you forever. Can't wait for you to catch me up on stories when I meet you in heaven,primo
Marcia
March 22, 2025
Our condolences to Walter's family. Walter's and Pat were very good friends of my brother Martin and myself. Walter's and Pat attended my brother's funeral in 2020. They both kind people. Walter's always treated me like a good friend. We will miss him. Condolences to his family.
Sidonie DeBruyn
March 22, 2025
Walter & my Richie shared the experience of working in the printing industry & had long conversations at family gatherings. Brother Patrick was also close with Richie & we have many fond memories of much joy shared by all the family. They all live on in our hearts, surrounded by deepest love. Shine your lights, boys!
Sindy DeBruyn, sister-in-law
Baji Milici
March 22, 2025
I remember when I had a centipede in my house, Walter came over to give me ourage to get it out of the house. He often helped me with things around my yard and he was always looking out for the safety of his neighbors.
Michael Vialpando
March 22, 2025
My condolences to the family. RIP my good buddy. It was an honor to sit and chat with you about sports and the worlds never ending surprises. You will be missed.
Michael Vialpando
Arnold Padilla
March 22, 2025
Walter was a good friend. Always full of energy and always joking around. You will be missed. Rest in peace Walter.
Richard Rivera
March 22, 2025
My dad Alfred Rivera, who was a Pressman at The New Mexican for over 40 years spoke highly of Walter's sports writing.
Marie Gutierrez y Alarid
March 22, 2025
I´ll miss Walter K from our sports days at St. Mikes, our interviews and his sense of humor. Coach Richard Alarid and Marie Gutierrez y Alarid.
Ed DeBruyn
March 21, 2025
RIP Bro
Baji Milici
March 21, 2025
I will miss Walter very much! He was an excellent neighbor and friend to me in times of need.
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