Lawrence Joseph Lopez

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Monday, June 3, 2024 at Christ The King Catholic Church in Gering, Nebraska with Fr. Mike McDonald as celebrant. Burial with military honors at West Lawn Cemetery in Gering. Visitation will be held from 4pm to 6pm with a Rosary beginning at 6pm on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Christ The King Catholic Church in Gering. Memorials may be made to Christ The King Catholic Church or The Knights of Columbus.

Lawrence (Larry) was born April 7, 1945 in Richmond, California to Carmen and Phyllis Lopez. He married the love of his life on June 26, 1971 Carol Reyes. To this union Stephanie and Erik were born.

Lawrence graduated from Minatare High School in 1963. After High School he enlisted in the US Navy as a SignalMan. Serving three separate tours in Vietnam honorably discharged in 1969 after earning a purple heart for injuries sustained. Continuing his military service he enlisted in the National Guard and served honorably for 32 years before retiring as a Sergeant First Class. Building his family's home in Gering Nebraska Lawrence began a career with The United Telephone Company (Sprint) where he remained employed until retirement in 2003.

He was a faithful parishioner of Christ the King Catholic Church in Gering for over 54 years, he was active in The Knights of Columbus, served as Grand Knight for the fourth degree, financial secretary for the third degree, and was the president of Legion Mary. He also taught CCD for several years and lived his Catholic faith passionately.

Involved in the community in his free time he volunteered coaching softball, baseball and basketball over a span of three decades.

Lawrence’s kids and grandkids were his pride and joy. He attended all their school activities and traveled countless miles to support all their events.

Lawrence is survived by his wife Carol Lopez and children Stephanie and Dean Ryan, Erik and Andrea Lopez, grandchildren, Brayden Ryan, Collin Ryan, Paige Lopez, Karsen Ryan and Kamry Lopez, Sisters, Rosie (Arley) Bindschadler, Phyllis (Carmelo) Blanco, Lori (Steve) Adams, Sister in laws, Josie Reyes (Richard Sly), Linda (Marc) Quevedo, Diane (Richard) Romero and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Carmen and Phyllis Lopez, Father in law, Senovio Reyes, mother in law Olivia Reyes.