Today, we gather to celebrate the life of a truly extraordinary man. His smile, generosity, compassion, and sense of humor are just a few of the many things we will miss dearly. He was a loving husband, father, brother, and friend to everyone he knew. He never met a stranger and wholeheartedly gave of himself to make everyone's life easier.

He was born on March 15, 1952, to Matias and Rumalda Lopez in Weslaco, Texas. He was one of five children and grew up alongside his four siblings: Tia Fina, Tio Zekiel, Tia Anna, and Tia Lela. As a young child, his family moved to Houston, Texas, where they attended New Life Church with Bro. Quiroz.  After returning from the Air Force, he met the love of his life, Ana Maria Van-Rysseghem. They met at church as he pursued her, wanting to know more about the girl with the beautiful colored eyes. They were married on January 4, 1975, and had five children: Stephy, Jenny, Josh, Cindy, and Mindy. He was the most loving father and worked hard to support his family.

Some of our fondest memories are of taking long drives and singing coritos in the car. Whether we were driving to the Valley to visit Tia Morena or simply taking long weekend drives, which he called "going far 'n around", he made every moment special. He loved making jokes, going to visit Memo (my grandma) late at night, drinking Coke, and creating memories with us.

He loved his children, but his greatest love was his Ana. I remember going to Fannin on Fridays to pick out flowers for my mom. He loved surprising her with flowers and gifts for no reason at all.

One of my earliest memories is Dad telling us that we had to love God more than anything. His love for God was the driving force in his life. I never saw my dad cry over the troubles and hardships of life. He faced challenges with strength, determination, and unwavering trust in God. The only place I ever saw him cry was at the altar as he worshiped. His love for the Lord was so deep and genuine. He worshiped God with all his heart, soul, and mind. It was a beautiful thing to witness.

My dad loved deeply. He loved Jesus above all else, and that love overflowed into every relationship he had. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandson. He gave us a wonderful example of how to love and serve others as Jesus did.

Dad, thank you for loving us so well. We will miss you terribly, but we find comfort in knowing that your body has been redeemed and that you are now basking in the presence of the Lord.  At Welo's funeral, you said you couldn't wait to be reunited with him and worship Jesus alongside him. I know you are doing that now. So, Dad, now it is our turn to say: We love you, and we can't wait to join you one day and dance in God's presence with you.

Until we meet again.