Carmen C. Lopez

Carmen C. Lopez, age 93, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her daughter Margaret's home on Easter Sunday, April 1, 2018 surrounded by her adoring husband and daughters.

Easter was Carmen's favorite religious holiday.

She was born on Valentine's Day, February 14, 1925, in Pintada, NM.

She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Bonifacio (Boney) and was the loving mother of daughters Margaret Lopez-Coplen (Richard), Arlene Lopez (Debbie). Grandchildren Brian Gallegos (Amy) and Angie Valdez, four great grandchildren, Necia and Zenin Gallegos and Ariana and Adrien Evans, her Lopez, Royal and Pelley families and best friend Nora Sahd.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lillie Werner and stepfather Ignacio Werner, her beloved son, Bobby Lopez and her sister Loretta Royal.

Carmen was an accomplished violinist and received many awards as a young woman and had a beautiful operatic voice. She was a published author, had an amazing wit, loved to dance and cook wonderful meals for her family and friends. She and Dad owned and operated B & C Service Station and Hardware Store in Los Padillas in the South Valley. She was owner of Carmen’s of New Mexico and honored as the Hispanic Business Woman of the Year. She volunteered thousands of hours with the VFW, American Legion, Veterans Hospital, their church and along with dad she played Mama Clause for 35 years. She was honored as a past president of the Gold Star Mothers of NM. She was elected to numerous offices she held throughout her life.

She loved the outdoors, especially in Vadito, NM enjoying the flowers, birds, the fields, animals, sunsets and nature from the porch. She was known for always wearing a flower in her hair.

Carmen had no enemies and was loved by everyone who came into her life. She enjoyed social activities and coordinating trips with friends to various casinos. She and Dad prayed the Rosary each day of their lives. Mom and Dad were the Catholic Family of the Year in New Mexico.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Carmen’s Rosary will be held on Monday, April 9, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Church,  Lomas & Tennessee NE, followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. Reception will follow at the American Legion Post 99 on Louisiana.

Carmen's Life Celebration will conclude with a Committal Service on Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:15 p.m.