Richard John Lopez

Richard John Lopez, 66, died on Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, in Santa Paula, after a brief illness. Born Dec. 20, 1942, in Selma, Calif., he moved with his family during infancy to Santa Paula and lived there for the remainder of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Delores Lopez; son, Ricky Lopez; and daughter, Debbie Lopez; stepsons, Craig, Jeff, and Todd Corona, and Louie Trinidad; stepdaughter, Cheryl Patterson; sisters, Nancy Gomez, Connie Alvidres, and Irene Cabral; grandsons, Daniel Forhan, Kevin Carrillo, Matthew Garcia, and Johnny Lopez; five step-grandsons; and four step-granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Preceding him in death were his first wife, Olive Ramirez Lopez, the mother of his two children; parents, John Lopez and Mary Robles Lopez; and stepson, Johnny Trinidad.

Richard worked in the construction industry in Ventura County for many years. He was a member of the Construction Laborers Union for 18 years before becoming superintendent of construction for Pardee Homes, a position he held for some years before his retirement. While with Pardee, in 2005 he took part as superintendent in the building of an “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” and was recognized for his participation in that effort.

He enjoyed golfing and camping, had been involved in youth activities in Santa Paula as a youth sports coach, and had played adult softball as well. Those who were his family, friends, and neighbors knew him as a kind, considerate, and helpful person who was always willing to assist others and to provide support when needed. The family expresses that those wishing to remember Richard may make a memorial donation in his name to Boys & Girls Club of Santa Paula.

Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, 2009, with Mass following at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 427 N. Oak Street, Santa Paula, with Father Charles Lueras officiating. A private burial service for family members is scheduled for a later date.

“Let It Be You”

Let it be you who lean above me

On my last day,

Let it be you who shut my eyelids

Forever and Aye.

Say “Goodnight” as you have said it

All of these years,

With the old look, with the old whisper

And without tears.

You will know then all that in silence

You always knew,

Though I have loved, I love no other

As I Love you.

- By Sara Teasdale

Arrangements under the direction of Funeraria del Angel Stetler Mortuary, 128 S. Eighth St., Santa Paula, Calif.; 805-525-5595.