Natasha Nadine Kaufman-Lopez

With a heart full of joy and a spirit that inspired all who knew her, Natasha Nadine Lopez passed away on May 15, 2024, at MD Anderson Cancer Hospital in Houston, Texas, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on November 24, 1978, in Auburn, California, Natasha's infectious laughter and zest for life continued to resonate throughout her 45 years. Starting Kindergarten at 4 years old, a year before the average, Natasha was always advanced in everything she did. Her teachers affectionately called her "Space Cookie" because Natasha always went to the sound of her own drum. Having a passion for running from an early age, Natasha started "Fun Runs" at 9 years old, gold medaling in the majority of races. Natasha attended Kempner High School in Sugar Land, Texas, graduating in 1996, where she was on Varsity and Lettered all 4 years in Track.
Natasha was a beloved linguist, having majored in linguistics at the University of Houston, working with Dr Carlos Monsanto, whom she adored as her mentor and as her adopted father.
Natasha was most noted for her contributions as an interpreter at the Vatican during her three-year residence in Italy. Her love for languages was matched only by her profound commitment to volunteering at shelters and sharing her linguistic skills with those eager to learn.
Her artistic soul found joy and tranquility in the beauty of art, opera, musicals, and museums. Her talent for teaching origami and enthusiasm for languages were part of her generous spirit, and she imparted these gifts to anyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Natasha's vibrant essence was encapsulated in her humor, her captivating life stories, and her unwavering interest in the arts.
Natasha's memory is cherished by her adoring family. She will be deeply missed by her former husband, Drew Parma and their children Anne Marie (Annie) and Matthew Patrick along with Natasha's current husband, Ben Lopez and their children, Isabella Grace and Emma Faith.
All four children were the light of Natasha's life and who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and curiosity. Her mother, Robin Blakley, who stayed by Natasha's bedside throughout Natasha's hospital stay, her father, Roger Kaufman along with her siblings, Wendy (Spike), Jennifer, Chance (Diana), Dustin (Chelsea), and Clara Kylie Kaufman and Step father, who are left to treasure the countless moments of laughter and love. Her four-legged companion, Maggie, affectionately known as "Pie Pie," will undoubtedly feel the absence of her warm presence. Natasha's countless friends, including Shantel Watson and Trennie Henry.
We would like to thank our lifelong friend, Amy Boram Wilson, for giving Natasha peace of mind for the tender loving care of Maggie "Pie Pie" during Natasha's hospital stay. Also, a huge thank you to the nurses and staff from the 21st and 12th floors at MD Anderson Cancer Hospital (Shannon, James, Sandy, and MacKenzie, and Kaitlyn), along with the many doctors, including Dr. Terry Pham Taylor and Dr. Remma Ravish for the excellent care, understanding and comfort given to Natasha. Also a special thanks to the children's counselor, Victoria Necroto LPC, NCC who counseled and guided Annie, Matthew, Isabella and Emma through a very short and difficult period of understanding their mothers short and very serious diagnosis. And to Chaplains J. Robyn Crosby, BCC, and Sylvia Klauser, BCC, for the words of comfort and understanding given to Natasha and her mother on many visits during her time at MD Anderson Cancer Hospital.
Natasha's life was a tapestry of spirited adventures, funny anecdotes, and interesting encounters. Her departure leaves a huge void for all that knew her, but her imprint on the world remains indelible, a testament to a life lived with passion and purpose.