Fernando Lopez

Fernando Edilio Lopez, 82, of Tamboril, Dominican Republic, and a 22-year resident of Berks County, died June 8, 2011, in his home after a short illness.

Fernando was born Aug. 4, 1928, in Tamboril, Dominican Republic, and moved to the United States in 1983, the son of the late Edilio and Lucrecia (Diaz) Lopez.

Fernando Edilio was employed as a driver in Tam-boril, Dominican Republic, for 20 years before becoming Tamboril's mayor. In 1983, Fernando moved to the United States and lived in Queens, NY, where he worked in La Guardia Airport. In 1986, Fernando and his family relocated to Reading, Pennsylvania.

Fernando loved to laugh and have fun with his family and friends. In addition to his love of food and music, he enjoyed the beach and playing cards.

Fernando is survived by his wife of 62 years, Maria Elisa (Cruz) Lopez; and his children: Fernando, Juan Abel, Armando, Gabrielina, Miguel David, Pelegrin and Samuel. He is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Fernando is predeceased by his son, Guillermo.

A Prayer service will be held on Sunday, June 12, 2011 at 4 p.m. in Henninger Funeral Home Inc., 229 N. 5th St., Reading. Friends and relatives may pay their respects to the family from 2 to 6 p.m. in the funeral home. For online condolences, please visit www. hen-ningerfuneralhome.com.