Obituary of Joe Elias Lopez

JOE ELIAS LOPEZ SR. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday , March 10, 2011 in Santa Cruz for Joe E. Lopez Sr. .He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 2, 2011. Mr. Lopez was born in Coahuila, Mexico, raised in Texas and then moved to Fresno when was a teenager. He moved to Santa Cruz in 1969 and began working with an insulation company which converted to roofing and he eventually started his own business, "Joe E. Lopez Roofing." His career in roofing spanned over 40 years. His physically demanding job did not slow him down when it came time to be with his family. His children will forever remember his dedication to them. As his family grew, he was always there for them. A good friend said, "rain or shine Joe was there". Joe was especially close to his grandchildren. The strength and wisdom he possessed will forever be cherished as he will be remembered as a wonderful father and grandfather. He was a member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Santa Cruz. His hobbies included fishing, camping, and fixing projects. Mr. Lopez is survived by his children: daughter; Jovita Lopez of Soquel, son; Joe E. Lopez Jr. of Santa Cruz, son; victor Lopez of Santa Cruz, and daughter; Laura Pacheco of Santa Cruz. He is also survived by his friend and former spouse, Frances Lopez of Santa Cruz, his grandchildren; Andrew Quitevis IV, Victoria Quitevis, and David Lopez.; great granddaughter, Aiyana Quitevis, along with many dear friends residing in Santa Cruz County. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jovita Lopez. The mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church (515 Frederick Street) in Santa Cruz, on Thursday, March 10th, beginning at 1 p.m. Friends may pay their respects at a viewing starting Thursday morning at the church from 9 a.m. until the mass begins. Family and friends are invited to the reception after the Mass at the VFW Hall at 2259 7th Ave. in Santa Cruz. Committal services will be private at Holy Cross Cemetery in Santa Cruz. Arrangements are under the direction of Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel. Please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com to light a candle for Joe and share condolences for the family.