Ruben Michael Lopez

Born May 8th 1931. Ruben was raised by his parents Jose and Maria Lopez along with 11 other brother and sisters. They grew up in the eastside neighborhood of Oceanside on Marquette Street. He spent most of his youth working the family’s ranch within the San Luis Rey River Valley. He attended Assimilation School in Oceanside on Division Street. Ruben was proceeded in death by Mary Araiza Lopez. They lived and raised their children on East Drive in Vista. Ruben is survived by his children; Tom Arellano, Victoria Lopez, Vermillia O’Rourke, Orlando Lopez, Marion Lopez, and Patrick Lopez. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Mr. Lopez was a Korean War Veteran and took great pride in the military and his service to his country. Ruben owned a successful asphalt paving company during a time of great racial inequality. He was motivated and worked hard every day of his life. Ruben loved coaching baseball and was very active with the Vista American Little League during the 1960’s. Ruben enjoyed getting together with friends, loved going to the horse races, and appreciated a trip to Las Vegas. To the very end Ruben always cared that his family was taken care of. Ruben passed on Sunday, October 8th surrounded by his family. Services will be at Eternal Hills in Oceanside on Friday, October 20th, at 1:00. A graveside service will immediately follow. The family invites you to join them after at Wildwood Park in Vista to share stories and laughs.

Arrangements under the direction of Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Mortuary, and Crematory, Oceanside, California.