Ector Lopez

Ector (Hector) Lopez, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home on August 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 6, 1939, in Mesilla, New Mexico he lived a life defined by hard work, humility, and strength. At the age of 17, he proudly joined the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Hancock (CVA-19). His service to his country was a source of pride throughout his life. After his time in the Navy, Ector, embraced the spirit of entrepreneurship. He built a life through dedication and determination, working as a farmer, landscaper, handyman, carpenter and more. No job was ever too big or too small - he approached every task with grit, resourcefulness, and integrity. Ector Lopez will be remembered as a man of quiet strength and unwavering love for his family. He faced his battle with cancer with the same strength and courage that defined his life. His legacy lives on in those who knew him, loved him, and were inspired by his example. He is survived by his loving wife, Herminia (Min) of 35 years. His children; John Lopez, Eva Valerio, Minerva Lopez (Ruben Telles), Bernice Sanchez (Simon), Dolores Padilla (Edward), and Raymond Maese (Jodie). His grandchildren; Stormi Swim, Autumn Brodsel, William Martinez, Amanda Washington, Bryanne Lopez-Granado, April Lopez, Carlos Sanchez, Jose Sanchez, Marcos Sanchez, Marissa Bowman, Kristina Sanchez, Bridget Maese, Erik Maese, Aaron Maese, Brandon Maese and 22 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings; Sidney Lopez, Henry Lopez (Margaret), Esther Lona (Cesario), Elosia Guerrero (Alfred), Emma Castaneda (Jesus) and many nephews and nieces. He was greeted in heaven by his parents, Benjamin and Josepha Lopez, brother Heriberto Lopez, sister Esperanza Madrid, daughter-in-law Kim Lopez, son Benjamin Lopez, son Paul Morales, grandson Andres Padilla, nephews Eddie Lopez and Gavino Castenada. 

Funeral service will be held on August 29, 2025, at St. Genevieve Catholic Church. The viewing will commence at 9:30-10am, Rosary from 10:00-10:30am, followed by mass at 11am. Following the service, Ector will be laid to rest at Masonic Cemetery. In honor of Ector, the following individuals will serve as pallbearers: Simon Sanchez, Raymond Maese, Carlos Sanchez, Jose Sanchez, Aaron Maese, Richard Madrid. Honorary pallbearers; Jimmy Michaels, Tommy Schlaefli, Henry Lopez and Marcos Sanchez. Military honors will be accorded by the United States Navy Honor Guard and the Marine Corp League-El Perro Diablo Detachment 478, Las Cruces, New Mexico. A very special thank you to those at High Desert Hospice, Melissa, Kailyn, MaryAnn, Chaplin Cassandra and many more. “Dad, your strength will forever inspire me, and I will carry your love with me always.” Minerva.