DELCAMBRE – A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted for Ulysse “Joe” Paul Lopez, age 78, at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church with Fr. Buddy Breaux officiating. Interment will follow at Our Lady of the Lake Mausoleum.
Visitation will be held at Evangeline Funeral home in New Iberia from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. The funeral home will reopen for visitation at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday until the time of service.
A native and resident of New Iberia, Mr. Lopez passed away on Sunday, October 15, 2023 at Iberia Medical Center with his family by his side.
Joe, as he was better known, was a man of the land and a master of many trades, and he leaves behind his memory in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He was born on May 15, 1945 to the late Willie and Lucy Viator Lopez and was one of three children. He had a natural affinity for the outdoors, and his love for rooster fighting, camping, fishing, and hunting was a huge part of him.
Joe was not just a lover of the great outdoors, but a true do-it yourselfer. He relished the challenge of fixing anything and everything on his own, never seeking the help of a mechanic. As a young man, Joe learned the trade of cattle ranching from his father, a tradition that was passed down through generations. Together, they tended to their cattle, nurturing the land and providing for their family. He spent most of his life working in the oilfield, where his skills as a welder and fitter were in high demand. He was a dedicated worker, always willing to put in the extra hours to ensure that the job was done right.
Joe will be remembered for his love of the land, his unwavering commitment to hard work, and his steadfast presence in the lives of those who cherished him. Though he may be gone, his legacy lives on, carried forward by the memories and the lessons he imparted.
He is survived by his two daughters, Michelle Vallot and husband Todd of Youngsville and Jody Chevalon and husband Etienne “Brush” of New Iberia; one son, Joey “Poncho” Lopez and wife Jamie of New Iberia; five grandchildren, Dusty Vallot and wife Ashlyn; Tyler Vallot and wife Katie; Madyson Vallot; Cigi Kappel and husband Kirk and Hunter Lopez; and three great grandchildren, Tanner Vallot, Dalton Vallot and Kate Kappel.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Barbara Babin Lopez; parents, Willie and Lucy Viator Lopez; grandchild, Abby Lopez; and sisters, Delores Buteaux and Jenny Romero.
Pallbearers will be Joey “Poncho” Lopez, Hunter Lopez, Todd Vallot, Dusty Vallot, Tyler Vallot and Etienne “Brush” Chevalon.
Honorary pallbearers will be Wayne Romero, Ricky Lopez, and Raywood “Sock” Buteaux.
The family would like to extend special thanks to the staffs of Hope Healthcare and Hospice and Iberia Medical Center for their kindness, caring, and dedication to Mr. Lopez during his final days.
To view the on-line obituary, video tribute, and sign the guest register, please visit www.evangelinefuneralhome.com.
Evangeline Funeral Homes of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
