Christie L. Lopanec

Christie Lyn (Thompson) Lopanec, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with breast cancer, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 58 years old.

Christie was born on June 5, 1968, in Jourdanton, Texas, to Patricia Ann Frazier and Buddy Thompson.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 33 years, Gene Lopanec Jr.; her children, Jason Strutz, Clayton (Meagan) Strutz, Brittney (Karl) Stahmann, and Benjamin Lopanec; and her cherished grandchildren, Darin, Riley, Gage, Wyatt, Kinsley, Kenny, Madilyn, and Colt. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Christie spent most of her childhood in Belton, Texas, and always looked forward to spending her summers with her daddy in Hamilton, Texas. A true daddy's girl, she loved riding horses and spending time at the car dealership where he worked. Those summers created some of her happiest memories and helped shape the hardworking, determined woman she became. She graduated from Belton High School in 1986 before moving to New Braunfels in 1990. It was there that she met the maintenance man who would become the love of her life, Gene Lopanec Jr. The two married in 1993 and spent the next 33 years building a beautiful life together, centered on love, laughter, and family.

Above all else, Christie was a mother. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to her children, never missing an opportunity to support them. Whether she was serving with the PTA, cheering from the sidelines at sporting events, planning unforgettable birthday parties, or simply being there when they needed her, Christie poured her heart into everything she did. Her creativity, generosity, and unwavering love made every moment special.

As her children grew older, Christie continued to pursue new opportunities. She worked as a substitute teacher, tax preparer and a memorial specialist before beginning her career with Stahmann Sales Company in 2006. Through nearly two decades of dedicated service, she rose to become General Manager, earning the respect of coworkers, customers, and industry peers alike. Under her leadership, the dealership consistently ranked among the nation's top ten in sales, and she received numerous awards recognizing her outstanding work ethic and leadership. More importantly, she became a mentor and role model to many who had the privilege of working alongside her.

While Christie excelled professionally, her greatest joy came from being "Grandma." Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

She never missed an opportunity to spoil them, encourage them, and remind them how deeply they were loved. She often told them to be happy, travel often, and never let obstacles keep them from pursuing their dreams. Those words will remain a lasting gift to each of them.

Christie was a fighter in every sense of the word. She faced every challenge with remarkable courage, grace, and determination. No matter what life placed before her, she met it with strength, optimism, and an unwavering love for her family. Even throughout her battle with breast cancer, she continued to put others before herself and inspired everyone around her with her resilience.

Christie's legacy is one of unconditional love, strength, generosity, and perseverance. She leaves behind countless memories that will continue to bring comfort and smiles to those who knew and loved her. Though she will be deeply missed every day, her love will remain forever in the hearts of her family and friends.

The family would like to thank everyone who supported Christie throughout her journey and ask that she be remembered not for her illness, but for the extraordinary love, kindness, and joy she shared with everyone she met.

Visitation will be held at Zoeller Funeral Home, 615 Landa St, New Braunfels, Texas 78130, on June 26, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 am. Burial will take place at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park, 2951 TX Hwy 46, New Braunfels, Texas 78130, on June 26, 2026.