With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Manuel V. Lopez Jr., a devoted husband and father, who left this world on March 15, 2025. Born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1943, Manuel lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service to his family, community and faith.
Manuel is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Norma Lopez; his loving daughter, Loretta Mendoza, and her husband, John Anthony; and his adopted daughter, Bridget Diaz, and her husband, Richard. He is also remembered by his sister, Elsa Mathews, her husband, Lloyd and their three daughters, Rita, Cynthia, Diana and their families. Manuel was preceded in death by his sister Estella Campos and her husband.
Manuel's life was marked by his commitment to service. He served in the U.S. Navy Reserves during high school and joined the Navy upon graduation. After his military service, he worked alongside his father at the well-known icehouse, Los Botecitos. Later, he was employed at Kelly AFB as a materials expediter.
Manuel was a devout member of St. James the Apostle Catholic Church and St. Henry's Catholic Church, where he actively volunteered for church festivals and other activities. He was also a dedicated member of the Holy Name Society, a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Assembly 3593, and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 11342, at St. Henry's. He was also devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe.
In his free time, Manuel enjoyed cooking, traveling, and dancing. He had a deep appreciation for music, particularly the San Antonio Sound, oldies, blues, and conjunto. His community spirit was evident in his volunteer work at the Guadalupe Cultural Center, the San Antonio Rose Society, and as an usher at the Majestic Theater.
The Rosary will be held on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025, at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino, located at 226 Cupples Rd., San Antonio, TX 78237. Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM, followed by The rosary at 7:00 p.m.
Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Henry's Catholic Church, located at 1619 S. Flores St., San Antonio, TX 78204. Mass will be followed by a Celebration of Life reception in the church hall. For parking, please use the lot by the hall or the lot across S. Flores Street from the church.
Graveside Services and Inurnment will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 25, 2025 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
Rest in peace, dear Manuel. Your love, legacy, and contributions to our community will forever be in our hearts.
