Michael "Mike" Lupe Lopez

Michael “Mike” Lupe Lopez, 60, passed away peacefully on the evening of Monday, May 23, 2011 at his home in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was born to Jesus and Emma Lopez, and was the fourth of six children. He was born on July 5, 1950 in San Diego, California. He was proud of his San Diego roots and later found his home in Colorado Springs.

Mike married Mary Van Dyke in 1970, and had two beautiful daughters Erin and Kari. In 1994, Mike moved on temporary assignment to Colorado Springs where he met Nadia Brockman and her two daughters Holly and Meagan. They married in 1997, and became a family. He is a proud grandfather of Hannah, R.J., Olivia and Peter.

As a young man, Mike loved track and field, skate boarding, boogie boarding and the beach. In 1970, Mike joined the Army which allowed him to proudly serve his country and travel abroad. While in the Army and through his career he was able to follow and succeed in his father’s footsteps as a master journeyman plumber. Mike was a proud union member of Plumbers and Pipefitters #230 in San Diego and Local Union #58 in Colorado Springs.

Mike loved life. His biggest love in life was his family. He loved photography, traveling, cooking, entertaining and gathering with his friends which often included a good cigar. Mike had a huge heart, always wanting to improve on the lives of others. He was an active member of his community, sitting on the board of his homeowners association and a strong member of the Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway.

Beyond this, Mike was so much more to all of us. He was a hero, and a clown. He was a father, a brother, grandfather, papa and husband. He was generous and fun loving. Mike always knew the punch-line but never the joke. He had a great belly laugh and gave the best foot rubs. Mike was always welcoming and accepting to all who crossed his path.

He is survived by his wife of 14 years, Nadia; his children Holly (Matt) Smith, Erin Lopez, Meagan (Aaron) Stuart, and Kari Lopez; his grandchildren Hannah Smith, Robert Lopez, Olivia and Peter Smith and all his loving family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway, P.O. Box 449, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80901.

Visitation will be Friday, May 27, 2011 from 9:30 to 10:30 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2650 Parish View, Colorado Springs. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

Arrangements under the direction of Swan-Law Funeral Directors, Colorado Springs, CO.