Alfonso "Holo" Lopez

Marriage and Family

Alfonso shared his life with his beloved wife, the late Leonor Stephens Lopez. Although they did not have children of

their own, they shared a special bond with their nieces and nephews, whom they loved and cherished as their own

children. Alfonso is survived by his beloved younger sister, Mary De Avila, along with his nieces and nephews and their

families. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leonor Stephens Lopez; his parents, Eutimio Lopez and Soledad

Mendoza; his sisters, Celia Lopez Soto, Emma Lopez Valdespino, and Enriqueta Lopez Natividad; and his brothers, Jesse

“Carrulo” Lopez and Eduardo “Eddie/Baby” Lopez.

Early Life, Education and High School Achievements

Alfonso was born on February 19, 1932, in El Paso, Texas, to Eutimio Lopez and Soledad Mendoza. Raised on the

Southside of El Paso, also known as Segundo Barrio, he attended Bowie High School, where he graduated with the Class

of 1951. During his high school years, Alfonso served as president of the senior class, vice president of the N.R.A., and

vice president of the B Club. He also participated in Bowie High School's R.O.T.C. program during the 1949–1950 school

year. His popularity and involvement in school life earned him recognition as Junior Favorite, Sophomore Favorite, and

All-School Favorite. A gifted three-sport athlete, he played football, basketball, and baseball from 1947 to 1950. One of

Alfonso's most memorable athletic achievements came as a member of the historic 1949 Bowie Bears baseball team. The

team overcame the challenges of segregation to win Texas's inaugural high school state baseball championship. This

remarkable accomplishment became an important part of El Paso's sporting history and remained a source of tremendous

pride throughout Alfonso's life. In 2009, Alfonso received a Certificate of Congratulation from the Texas House of

Representatives, presented by State Representative Norma Chávez, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the team's

historic championship. In 2024, Alfonso was inducted into the Bowie Memory Lane Hall of Fame in recognition of his

outstanding achievements and contributions to society during and beyond his high school years. On April 2, 2024, Alfonso

received another special honor when he was invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch at the El Paso Chihuahuas' Opening

Day game. At the time, he was recognized as the last living member of Bowie's historic 1949 state championship baseball

team. This memorable occasion celebrated the 75th anniversary of the team's championship and Alfonso's place in El

Paso's baseball history. He remained a proud Bowie Bear throughout his life.

Military Service

Following his graduation from Bowie High School in 1951, Alfonso enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his

country from June 12, 1951, to June 6, 1955, during the Korean War era. During his nearly four years of honorable

service, Alfonso attained the rank of Boatswain's Mate Third Class (BM3) and completed three years and six months of

foreign and sea service. In recognition of his service, he received the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service

Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. Alfonso was honorably discharged on June 6, 1955, and his military record

noted that he was recommended for reenlistment, a meaningful testament to his honorable service. His service to his

country remained an enduring part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Career and Work Ethic

During the early 1970s, he worked as a service counter representative for Contractor's Equipment Company, a heavy

construction equipment business. He later enjoyed a long career with General Electric Supply Company, selling electrical

products to contractors and remaining with the company after its relocation to Montana Avenue near the El Paso airport.

After retiring, Alfonso remained active, performing building maintenance at the Koger office buildings on Executive

Center Boulevard, including the Pershing Building.

A Lifelong Love of Baseball

Throughout his life, Alfonso remained involved in baseball, sharing his knowledge, experience, and love of the game with

younger generations. He found joy in mentoring young players, encouraging them to develop not only their athletic

abilities but also the discipline, teamwork, and character that baseball had taught him. His influence extended beyond the

baseball field, leaving lasting memories and valuable lessons with those he mentored.

Personal Interests and Healthy Living

Alfonso believed in maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Weightlifting was one of his favorite activities and a

lifelong commitment. Alfonso also enjoyed playing the guitar, a talent that brought him personal enjoyment and allowed

him to share his love of music with others.

Faith and Spiritual Life

Faith played a meaningful role throughout Alfonso's life. He was a member of San Ignacio de Loyola Catholic Church,

where he participated in the church choir and shared his musical talent by playing the guitar. He also attended Santa Lucia

Catholic Church and, in his later years, Harvest Christian Center. His faith remained an important source of strength and

guidance throughout his life.

A Legacy of Quiet Strength

Alfonso was a man of quiet strength. Kind, humble, and soft-spoken, he never sought the spotlight or demanded

recognition. Yet his influence reached far beyond what he may have realized. He was devoted to his wife and extended

family, proud of his military service, passionate about baseball, and committed to living an active and purposeful life.

Whether mentoring young baseball players, spending time with family, playing his guitar, or offering a helping hand,

Alfonso touched the lives of others through his generosity and genuine kindness. His legacy will live on through the

family he cherished, the young athletes he inspired, and the countless memories he leaves behind. Although he will be

deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the example he set will remain forever in the hearts of those

who knew him.

A Special Thank You

The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Alfonso's dedicated caregivers at his VA Foster Care Home, his VA

medical team, and his hospice team for their exceptional care, compassion, and kindness. Their unwavering dedication

brought Alfonso comfort, dignity, and peace during his final days. We are deeply grateful for the love and support they

provided to Alfonso and our family.

A Final Tribute to Alfonso “Holo” Lopez

Loving and kind in all his ways,

Upright and just to the end of his days.

Sincere and true in heart and mind,

Beautiful memories he left behind.

He had a nature you could not help love,

A heart that was purer than gold.

And to those who knew and loved him,

Alfonso's memory will never grow old.