Raul G. Lopez Obituary (1942 - 2017)

Raul G Lopez of Kyle, Texas, was called by our Heavenly Father on Friday, September 22, 2017. Raul was born on December 22, 1942 in Beeville, Texas to Roman Lopez Sr. and Sara Gonzalez Lopez. He graduated from Alice High School in 1963 and immediately joined the Army National Guard. Raul then married his lovely wife, Diana Martinez in 1967, of Alice, Texas. Raul and Diana relocated to Austin, Texas and began their family. Raul and Diana raised their three children in Northeast Austin where they lived for over 30 years. They were members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and together volunteered countless hours in their community. They continued their service throughout retirement at Santa Cruz Catholic Church in Buda, Texas. Raul was the General Manager of MiniMax Grocery in Austin for over twenty-five years before later opening a family owned furniture business, Lopez Furniture Store. After retirement Raul and Diana settled in Kyle, Texas. Raul was a pillar in his community and had a true servant's heart. He was loyal to his community by volunteering for and supporting several local organizations in the area. Raul was a member of the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus; Fourth Degree, Sembradores De Austin, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Sacred Heart Men's Club, Texas Exes and several others. He championed for the Democratic Party and participated in several successful campaigns. He was a true Democratic supporter by contributing to several fundraisers throughout his life. He was granted with many community recognitions and awards. Raul spent his later years loving his family and spending countless hours bringing joy to his grandchildren. He returned to college and received his degree in business in 1998 from The University of Texas. He remained a true Longhorn's fan. During football season you would often find him tailgating with his friends and family at many UT games. He paved the way for his grandchildren to have the same love and passion for the Texas Longhorns as he did. Raul's dynamic personality touched the lives of many people with his kindness, strength, hospitality and passion for life. His huge heart made an impact upon every person he came into contact with. Raul adored his family, especially his grandchildren. He brought his grandchildren and family much love and joy. He was especially known for his contagious and boisterous laugh, the many kisses upon our cheeks and his witty humor. Raul adored, and was adored, by his wife and children and he will forever hold a place in our hearts. He was preceded in death by his parents Roman Lopez Sr. and Sara Gonzalez Lopez; and his brothers Roman G. Lopez Jr. and Rafael G. Lopez. He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years Diana Martinez Lopez; children Raul Anthony (Monique) Lopez Sr., Monica L. (Daniel) Rayburn, and Veronica J. (BJ) Charles; grandchildren: Raul Anthony Lopez Jr., Alysia Lybrand, Brandon Lopez, Christian Lopez, Gabby Lopez, James Charles, Julia Charles, Dylan Rayburn and Sophia Rayburn: great grandchild; Jonathon Celedon; siblings: Roberto Lopez, Audelia Garcia and Ofelia Lopez; and numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family and friends. Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Recitation of Holy Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m., on Monday September 25, 2017 at Mission Funeral Home - Serenity Chapel, 6204 S. First St., Austin, Texas. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday September 26, 2017 at Santa Cruz Catholic Church in Buda. Interment will follow at Cook Walden Memorial Hill Cemetery. Please visit www.missionmemorials.com to order flowers and offer condolences to the family.