Irene Lopez

Irene was born on October 5, 1947 in Kansas City, MO to Angelo and Antonia Lopez at St. Mary's Hospital. Irene graduated high school at the age of 16 at Redemptorist High School and pursued her career in nursing. She graduated with her bachelors in nursing in 1969. She then continued her education at North Kansas City Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia and graduated in 1975. She worked at Menorah Hospital, Independence Regional, MCI, and North Kansas City Hospital where she spent 20+ years in her career. She received an award from the mayor of Kansas City for being the first Hispanic female to be registered as a nurse anesthetist in the state of Missouri. Irene was always passionate about providing patient care and being their advocate. She was a mentor to several of her colleagues in expanding their careers.

Irene had a love for life. She cherished being with her family and hosting family events. She traveled throughout the United States and abroad and loved experiencing new places. She enjoyed cooking for her family on Sunday. Her favorite time of the year was Christmas in which she baked items to give to her family and friends. She also enjoyed decorating the house with her sister. Irene was a person who put everyone first and ensured their needs were met before her own. Humor was in her DNA and she was devoted to bringing laughter to others.

Irene was preceded in death by her father, Angelo Sr.; her mother, Antonia; her sister, Angelina Lopez Valandingham; brother, Angelo Lopez Jr.; sister, Patricia Rodriguez; and beloved nephew, Joseph Christopher Lopez. Irene is survived by her sister, Henrietta Valdivia; her brother, Luke Lopez; her brother, Joe Lopez Sr.; her sister, Catherine Mendez; and several other nieces and nephews. The family would like to express their gratitude to Kansas City Hospice, North Kansas City Hospital, and Dr. David Ernst.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday July 18, 2020, at St. Mark's Catholic Church, 3736 S. Lee’s Summit Rd, Independence, MO. Due to COVID 19, only 100 people are allowed in the church for services.