Rose Herrera Lopez

In the song of life, Rose Herrera Lopez was surely the composer. A very observant woman who would rather spend her time creating than talking, Rose preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around her made sense. In fact, she depended on her sensory world to provide her with concrete data. A free spirit, Rose believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. She seemed to know what fit and what didn’t fit in everything she did. Rose perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to her, yet she lived with a definite sense of purpose. She was a woman who was always ready to share her creations with those around her.

Rose was born on August 30, 1927 in Brentwood, California. Her parents were Francisco and Amelia Herrera. Rose was raised in California and parts of Arizona while immigrating. As a young child, Rose was optimistic in her outlook. She sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply her creative energies. Rose rarely calling attention to herself, but when she did speak out, her message was clearly understood by those around her.

Early on in her family relationships, Rose showed that she was a tolerant and flexible person, and she got along fairly well with everyone. She was raised with 11 siblings total, 7 girls and 5 boys. She had Jennie; Santos; Rudy; Angie; Phyllis; Rosario; Charlie; Mollie; Raymond; Frances; Frank Jr (Kiko). She was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

As she was growing up, Rose developed into a person who enjoyed physically doing things, and she took pleasure in using her hands in order to create. Although Rose’s formal schooling only went through the eighth grade she persisted and received her GED as an adult after which she challenged the Board of California Public Health and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse. However, to Rose, the most fun she had was simply spending time with family and friends.

Rose was shy and sensitive, a person who never forced her opinions and values on others. Close friends knew that her kindness was unmatched, and once you became a friend of Rose’s, you understood how true a friend she could be. While growing up, some of her best friends were her sisters and brothers.

A person who was sensitive to others’ feelings, modest and tolerant, Rose had the ability to become completely devoted to another when that affection was returned. On November 16, 1950, Rose exchanged wedding vows with her life partner Andrew L. Lopez in Fresno, California.

Rose was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to her children. These emotional bonds made her as much playmate as parent. She gave her family unconditional love and kindness, sharing her artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. Rose was blessed with five children, Andrew, Steve, Catherine, Yvonne, Joseph; four grandchildren, Andrew IV, Albert Jr;, Francisco, and Nichole; and 2 great grandchildren, Kayla and Andrew V.

Rose found ways to enjoy what she did for a living. She worked hard and did her best to succeed every day. Her primary occupation was as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Rose tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing her will on others. She received many achievement awards through nursing from both peers and supervisors.

Rose enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were some knitting; gardening; raising chickens. Rose was content to enjoy her hobbies alone but was also willing to share her interests with others. She was relaxed in her approach to her leisure time because she wanted to savor the present moment.

Although not a sports fan Rose thoroughly enjoyed cheering and rooting for her children. Mom loved to be surrounded by her boys and other family members while they were engulfed in sports.

Politically, Rose was a Strong Democrat. Rose was able to serve her community well, thanks to her open mind and faithful commitment.

Rose’s faith was important to her. She was a member of the Catholic Church. Rose's passionate commitment to upholding her values placed her at home in her religion, where she took comfort in the company of others who believed as she did.

Favorite vacations included Avila Beach, Ensenada Beach, Baja CA, Rosarita Beach and Mexicali.

When Rose’s retirement finally arrived she was well prepared. Her new life involved staying in Fresno, Ca. In retirement, she stayed close with all family members including those in Bakersfield and San Diego. Even in retirement, Rose continued to stay in touch with her old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances.

Rose passed away on September 21, 2013 at her home peacefully with family members present. She is survived by her brother and sisters Molly, Frances, Kico, Phyllis, Rosario, Angie, Rosario; sons and daughters Andy, Steve, Catherine, Yvonne; and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Services were held at St. John’s Cathederal in Fresno. Rose was laid to rest in St. Peters Cemetery.

Rose was a good woman, a kind woman, and a practical woman who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. She leaves behind her a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Rose always had much to give and was able to make those connections in her life where her gifts were appreciated. Rose was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Rose Herrera Lopez.