Emma T. Lopez

Emma T. Lopez, life-long San Diegan, passed away on December 30, 2020 at the age of 94. Emma was a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend to many. She was born in San Diego to Ernesto & Guadalupe Araujo on November 23, 1926. She grew up in Barrio Logan where her parents owned and operated the Neighborhood Café for over 40 years. Emma had one older brother Ernesto Araujo Jr. (deceased) and two younger sisters, Louise del Araujo who currently resides in North Hollywood and Alicia Ketcham who resides locally here in Poway.

Emma attended San Diego High School graduating in 1945; where she was active in Victory Corps and Junior College. After graduating Emma met and married Ralph S. Lopez Jr. of San Diego. Emma and Ralph (a Carpenter) built their home on Rachael Avenue in National City. They welcomed daughter Theresa in 1954 and daughter Lorraine in 1962.

Emma and Ralph were married for 55 years until Ralph passing in 2001. Emma continued to reside in their home on Rachael until 2004 when she then re-located to Downtown San Diego, living in the Gaslamp District enjoying the sights and sounds of Downtown living. Emma moved in 2019 to Bonita to live with her daughter Lorraine until her passing.

Emma worked at Rohr Inc. an Aerospace Company, Deluxe Check Printers and retired from the State of California Employment Development Department after over 18 years of service.

Emma joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Don Diego Ladies Auxiliary #7420 in May 1961. Emma served in several offices achieving President in 1969. Following this she served as the San Diego VFW Auxiliary County Council President. After achieving several District Offices Emma served as District President. In 1992 Emma achieved the esteemed honor of Auxiliary State President where her theme was Carousel of Service!

Emma continued to be a devoted and active member of the Ladies Auxiliary, now known as the VFW Auxiliary, up until just a couple months before the end of her life. She continued to serve in leadership roles, serving as a mentor to many; a role she truly cherished always reminding all to “read their by-laws.”

Emma volunteered at the George H. Waters Nutrition Center in National City for over 15 years. She arrived dutifully each morning offering her services. Emma established many special friendships at the Nutrition Center and was always made to feel a part of the team.

One of Emma’s most favorite roles was “Nana.” Emma was a devoted Nana to Nicole, Nathan, Noah, Christopher, Erica and Natalie. Emma attended school plays, baseball games, karate lessons, ballet recitals, graduations….never wanting to miss a moment. She also was lucky enough to be a Great Nana to Valentina and Madeleine Minoza. She spoiled them every chance she got.

Emma loved to travel; she took many cruises to destinations such as Alaska, the Bahamas, Mexico and Italy. No matter where she was Emma could always be counted on to be the life of the party. She loved spending time with family and friends and even as she aged. She always said “If I can get up, I am getting out!” which included still driving until the age of 93!

Emma is survived by her daughter Theresa Santini, Poway, CA. and daughter Lorraine Duran (Husband Daniel Duran) of Bonita, CA. Six grandchildren, Nicole Minoza (Husband Wellington Minoza) of Bainbridge Island, WA., Nathan Bok of Walnut, CA, Noah Bok of Wausau, WI., Christopher, Erica and Natalie Duran of Bonita, CA. Two great granddaughters, Valentina & Madeleine Minoza of Bainbridge Island, WA. Sister Louise del Araujo (Wife Jan Pascale) of North Hollywood, CA. and Sister Alicia Ketcham of Poway, CA.

A memorial service is scheduled for Emma on August 7, 2021, 10:00am at Glen Abbey Memorial Park, 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA. 91902.