Ben Lopez, 79, died suddenly on Wednesday at his residence in Newman. Mr. Lopez was born and raised in San Leandro. He enlisted in the National Guard in 1951, and reenlisted in the United States Army in 1952. He earned several medals, including Army Occupation Medal (Germany), Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. After his Honorable Discharge in 1960 he worked for Patcar Inc. as a foreman for 25 years. Ben settled in Newman in 1990 and enjoyed camping.

He is survived by his wife, Lorraine Lopez; sisters, Marie Anderson, Connie Fernandez and Ditty Hague; and brothers, Manuel Lopez, and Mike Lopez.

He will be laid to rest during a private service at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella. 

Please share your memories at www.allenmortuary.com. Allen Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.