John Vaz Lopes

John Vaz Lopes entered peacefully into rest on February 25, 2016. He was born on February 5, 1933 in Ribeirinha, Terceira, Azores. He moved to Rio De Janeiro, Brazil in February of 1962. John moved to the United States in August of 1963. In September of 1964 at the Gustine Festa, he met his wife of 51 years, Juvenalia D. Lopes. He received his Naturalization Papers on April 24, 1972. He resided in Stanislaus County since 1971 where he worked as a milker. He was a parishioner of Sacred Heart Church in Turlock. John was a long term resident at Brandel Manor in Turlock for eleven and a half years.

He is survived by his 5 children, 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren: John Lopes of Turlock (Renee), Tony Lopes of Turlock (Desiree), Aileen Crone of Turlock (Justin), Arleen Wallen of Denair (Jared) and Christina Macklin of Turlock (Joe). John is also survived by his siblings: Joe Lopes of Merced (Maria), Maria Trinca of Merced, Idalina Costa of Gustine, Rosa Lopes of the Lada Grande, Terceira, Azores and sister-in-law Albina Lopes of Turlock. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Antonio and Rosa Lopes and his brothers, Antonio and Francisco Lopes.

John Lopes was an amazing husband, father (Pai), grandfather (Vovô) and great-grandfather. He was self-less, hardworking, loving, patient and thoughtful. He cared for many others, always had a radiant smile on his face and was a friend to all. His attitude was contagious, his laughter filled the halls and he was loved and endeared by many. He will be greatly missed.

There will be a viewing on Thursday, March 3rd from 2-7 pm at Whitehurst, Norton and Dias Funeral Home and a rosary will be said in his honor at 7:00 pm. Memorial Service will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Friday, March 4th at 11:00 and burial at Turlock Memorial Park and a reception to follow.

Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Service, 286 W. Main St., Turlock, CA, is entrusted with all of the arrangements. (209) 634-4904.

www.dignitymemorial.com/whitehurst-norton-dias-funeral-service