Miguel Lopez Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Miguel "Mike" Lopez, lovingly known by many as "Viejio," who passed away on June 14, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on June 13, 1947, in El Paso, Texas, Mike lived a life defined by laughter, love, service, and unwavering kindness. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War before dedicating many years of service to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

To know Mike was to know joy. He was truly full of life—always smiling, always dancing, and always finding a way to make everyone around him laugh. He wasn't one to sit around telling stories—instead, he would playfully tease, lightly "bully," or jokingly swat at his grandkids, family, and friends, all in good fun. One of the phrases everyone will forever remember him saying was, "Oh, shut up!" Usually followed by a smile or a laugh. He never met a stranger and had an incredible ability to make friends wherever he went.

Although he loved to joke around, Mike also had a remarkable gift for giving advice. Whenever someone needed guidance, comfort, or encouragement, he always seemed to know exactly what to say. His words came from a lifetime of experience, wisdom, and love, and many of his family and friends will carry his advice with them for the rest of their lives.

Mike was the kind of man who would gladly lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His generosity, compassion, and big heart touched countless lives. Above all else, he cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, cherished brother, a loving father, an amazing grandfather, and a proud great-grandfather whose love and guidance will live on through the generations he helped shape.

He found happiness in life's simple pleasures. Mike loved playing pool, camping, and riding his bike—even when his doctors told him he shouldn't because of his health. He believed life was meant to be lived to the fullest, and if there was one thing he wasn't going to give up, it was enjoying that last piece of sweet cake. His stubborn spirit, adventurous heart, and zest for life were part of what made him so unforgettable.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of laughter, strength, generosity, and unconditional love. Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort knowing that his stories, his laughter, and the countless memories he created will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His smile, his dancing, and the joy he brought into every room will forever remain in our hearts.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Until we meet again.

Visitation will be held at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 North Carolina Drive, El Paso, TX 79915, US, on June 22, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, and a Celebration of Life will be held there on June 22, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Committal Service will be held at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave, El Paso, Texas 79906, US, on June 23, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:30 am.