Ramon Lopez

Ramon, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born and raised in Lima, Peru, he was the youngest male of ten children of Rosa García del Mar and Alberto López. He was shaped to be the natural peacemaker that he was to the end. Even as a boy, he was the one who wanted everyone to get along, the quiet center in a lively, crowded home.

His life was built on hard work from the very beginning. After immigrating from Peru, he made his first stop on his journey to Chicago. He worked long, labor-intensive days in a clothing factory and soon settled in Virginia, joining the City of Alexandria Housing Authority as a painting contractor. Eventually, with grit and an entrepreneurial spirit, he opened his own contracting business. Painting houses, hanging wallpaper, and doing carpentry was demanding, exhausting work-especially while raising five children-but he carried it with pride. Even when the income wasn't steady, he always managed to take care of his family.

His voice was gentle, patient, and steady. But on the rare occasions he did raise his voice, the whole house froze. Those moments were so few that they became family legend, proof that even the kindest souls have limits.

Ramon was generous in a way that didn't need announcing. He gave quietly, consistently, and from the heart. Sundays were sacred: his wife didn't cook, and he made sure the family went out for lunch together. And every year, without fail, there was the trip to the beach. He was a true beach bum-one of the first to stake out the perfect spot in the morning and one of the last to pack up at sunset. The ocean was his happy place, and he shared that joy with everyone around him.

He also spent ten years volunteering as a soccer coach for his son's team-whether the coaches liked it or not. His enthusiasm, encouragement from the sidelines, and his belief in every kid made him unforgettable. He was passionate about soccer. In his spare time, he liked watching sports such as soccer, American football, boxing, and playing the guitar. At home, he filled the air with slow ballads on guitar, a warmth and comfort that his family will never forget.

He is survived by his devoted wife of more than 65 years, Delia, and their children Eddie (Letis), Carlos (deceased), Gabi, Mila (John), and Freddy. He leaves behind seven grandchildren, Elisa (Aaron), Christin (Gary), Christopher, Tara (deceased), Celestina, Wesley, Jonathan, Jeremy (Mariam), and eleven great grandchildren, each carrying a piece of his kindness, humor, and resilience.

Ramon's life was a testament to humility, perseverance, and the quiet strength of a man who loved deeply and gave generously. He worked hard, laughed often, and always chose peace over conflict. He will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was-a gentle soul who made life brighter for everyone lucky enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.