George Lopez, born on July 27, 1942, in Rainsville, New Mexico, passed away on December 15, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. The son of Placida Martinez and Francisco “Frank” Lopez, George led a life marked by dedication, service, and love. 

Preceding him in death were his parents, baby brother, granddaughter Francesca Renee Santa Maria, grandparents Juan Isidro and Cleotilde Martinez, uncles Emilio, Frank, and Nestor Martinez, aunts Angelina Arguello and Juanita Cordova, cousins Eutilia (Mary) Gonzalez and Marcella Marquis, second wife Cynthia (Cindy) Harrell-Lopez, and long-time companion Ellen “Corky” Maracle. 

George is survived by his brother Gilbert Martinez and niece Ramona “Mona” Estrada. He leaves behind his first wife Jacquelin Marie Lopez-Brookshire and their children: Ronda (Jeff Langley), Angelina (Dave Blankschen), Sherry (Brian Lewis), Christine Lopez, and Georgina “Gina” Macala. His legacy extends to his beloved grandchildren Emily Mills Ortega, Elisia Santa Maria, Jackie Santa Maria, Trace Langley, Erin Langley, Dylan Jones, Michelle Santa Maria, Quentin Macala, and great-grandchild Josephine “Josie” Jones. He is also remembered by many loving cousins and family members, including Nora Gallegos, Lorraine Bleagarcia, and Leo Arguello.

George dedicated 20 years of his life to serving in the United States Navy, stationed on the USS Chicago, USS Dixie, and USS Coral Sea, among other locations. A Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veteran, he was an ardent supporter of the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Association. After his retirement, he settled in Portsmouth, Virginia, for over 40 years, actively participating in VFW Post 993 and enjoying gatherings at Catherine’s Cafe.

In 2018, George moved to the Connecticut Veterans Home in Rocky Hill, CT. He cherished his weekends in Wolcott, CT, where he frequented VFW Post 1979 and American Legion Post 209. He enjoyed billiards, bowling, crossword puzzles, solitaire, and especially sharing a cold Coors Light with friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare providers who cared for George in his final months, particularly Dr. Michal Rose at the West Haven VA Hospital, the Athena Hospice team, and nurse Ron at The Summit.

A memorial service with military honors was held on December 19, 2021, at DellaVecchia Funeral Home in Southington, CT, followed by a celebration of life reception at the American Legion Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations were made to the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Association. 

George’s life, marked by unwavering service and deep familial love, will forever be remembered and cherished.