Michael A. Lopez

Michael A. Lopez, age 22, of Topeka, passed away Monday, July 13, 2009 at Stormont-Vail Health Care.

He was born December 1, 1986 in Topeka, the son of Richard E. and Rachel A. (Cruz) Lopez.  Michael graduated from Highland Park High School in 2006.  Michael was employed by the Shawnee County Refuse Department at the time of his death.

Michael loved to play basketball and was on the family softball team.  He was a huge North Carolina Tar Heels fan.  Michael enjoyed playing with the many young cousins in the family and especially his nephew.  Michael will be remembered for his generous giving spirit, his willingness to help others and for always being able to make people laugh.

Michael was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

He is survived by his parents, two brothers Mark and Carlos Lopez, grandparents, Hector and Rosalie Cruz and Elizabeth Arvizo and a nephew Elijah Lopez, all of Topeka.  Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.  He was preceded in death by his grandfather Rito Lopez.

Michael will lie in state after 4:00 p.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church where a parish rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Friday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael Lopez Memorial Fund and sent in care of Kansas Super Chief Credit Union, 501 NE Lake, Topeka, KS 66616 or to the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.

Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com.