Cecilio "Chilo" Lopez

~ In Loving Memory ~

Cecilio “Chilo” Lopez age 88 of South Chicago passed away peacefully on November 24, 2019. Cecilio was born on November 22, 1931 in Humacao Puerto Rico to Fabiana and Domingo Lopez. He was the 7th child of 9, and the youngest son. Cecilio came to Chicago in 1952 with his brother Atanasio Lopez and nephew Anibal Maldonado. Chilo began working his first job at a local grocery store called “La Colorada”, which many people believed he owned because of his red hair. In 1963 Chilo went to work at Inland Steel Mills, and remained dedicated to his career for 30 years, before retiring in 1993. On August 31, 1957 Cecilio married the love of his life: Irene Velasquez. After waiting ten years, they were blessed with their first son Michael, and two years later in 1969, their second son Dominic was born. During Cecilio’s career at the Steel Mill, he began attending the Bible Institute and progressed to become an ordained Pastor. It was then that he began as a Co-Pastor to his brother Rev. Atanasio Lopez at the South Chicago Pentecostal Church (Rios de Agua Viva). In 1984 both Cecilio, and his wife Irene were called to be Pastors at the Pentecostal Church of Hammond, IN where they remained at service for over fifteen years. Cecilio and Irene loved the Lord and taught their children, grandchildren, nephews, and nieces to love the Lord. Chilo was a hard working man and loved unconditionally. One of his favorite expressions when someone asked for a blessing (which is a Puerto Rican custom) was: “vete a freir papas”, which meant go fry potatoes. Cecilio was the last survivor of his siblings. He now joins Menica, Gil, Juango, Fidela, Fana, Atanasio, Sara, and Crucita. He is survived by his sons; Michael (Vange) and Dominic (Leslie); daughter Tiffany; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and other family members. Visitation will be on Friday, November 29, 2019 from 4 PM until 9 PM at the South Chicago Pentecostal Church of God Rios de Agua Viva; 9231 S. Houston Ave., Chicago, IL 60617. Funeral Services to commence on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at 9 AM, followed by a Funeral Procession to Oakland Memory Lanes Cemetery of Dolton, IL. The love and wisdom that Chilo passed down to his family and friends will be forever cherished.

Rev. Cecilio Lopez has finished his pilgrimage on Earth. Now we say to him; “On word Christian soldier you have earned your crown”. May you rest in peace.

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