Rafael Angel Lopez

Rafael Angel Lopez, known to all as Ralph, passed away on March 9, 2026, at the age of 63, surrounded by his loved ones in San Antonio, Texas. Born on September 15, 1962, at Rodriguez U.S. Army Hospital in Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, to Victor Luis Lopez-Diaz and Ana Celia Rivera Quintana, Ralph grew up with a deep sense of pride in his Puerto Rican heritage and a strong commitment to service.

He graduated from Cole High School in 1980 before serving his country in the United States Army as a Military Police officer for three years, followed by three years in the Army Reserve. Stationed in Germany and at Fort Hood, Texas, he attained the rank of Specialist Four and earned the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Expert Marksman qualification, and Good Conduct Medal. After his military service, Ralph began a 38-year career at Big Red-7UP Bottling Company as an Operations Manager, where he was respected for his strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to help others.

Ralph married the love of his life, Carmen Canedo Lopez, on September 3, 1994. Together they built a loving home and raised two children, Rico Ray Lopez and Sophia Alexis Lopez, of whom he was immensely proud. He is survived by his wife Carmen, his children Rico and Sophia, and his siblings Victor Luis Lopez (Alma), Luis Angel Lopez (Jacqueline), and Maria Socorro Lopez (Archie). He was preceded in death by his parents.

Ralph cherished time with his family and friends. He enjoyed riding his Honda Goldwing motorcycle with Carmen to small Texas towns, attending car shows in one of his own well-kept vehicles, and spending days at the beach or on overlanding adventures in his Excursion. He found simple pleasures in enjoying a cold beer on the front porch, watching murder mystery shows, shooting pool to the sound of freestyle music, and cheering for the Tennessee Titans. A proud Puerto Rican with a bold sense of humor, Ralph was often the life of the party. He will be remembered as a devoted provider, a practical and honest man of quiet strength, and a person whose kindness, character, and laughter left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.