Obituary of Benjamin Charles Lopez

Benjamin “Ben” Charles Lopez, born May 8, 1964, passed away on December 26, 2023. Ben was preceded in death by his parents George and Shaya Lopez, and his brother George Lopez, and his granddaughter Ibis.

Ben is survived by his wife LeeAnn and two daughters Ruby Lopez and Anne Martinez along with three grandchildren Henry, Makayla, and Joe J.r.. His sisters Debbie Archuleta of Espanola, NM, Velvet Money of Rio Rancho, NM, Crystal Gonzales of Espanola, NM and Georgia and Clarissa Montano of Las Vegas, NV. He is also survived by his father-in-law, Henry Garcia, of Española and sister-in-law, Trish Baca of Ohkay Owingeh, NM. Also surviving Ben are numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Ben was born in California and enjoyed talking about the good old days when he and his siblings would walk to parks and movie theaters. He moved to New Mexico in his teens and graduated from Espanola Valley High School. Ben was proud of his time as a firefighter in the Air Force and of his community service work as President of the Española Jaycee's as well as his fundraising work for Ruby’s school trips and clubs. Ben was an avid Raiders fan and was sure to make everyone aware with all his hats, t-shirts, and other fan gear.

Ben and LeeAnn were together for 31 years and married for 27. He loved going to concerts, wrestling events and his favorite restaurants with LeeAnn. Their favorite place to go together was Rancho De Chimayo, where they met and got married. As a couple, they were known for their many matching T-shirts for special occasions.

The services will be held on January 13, 2024 at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, NM, with a rosary at 10:00 am and a mass following at 11:00 am. Following the services will be a reception at the American Legion Hall in Espanola at 1:00 pm.