Richard William Lopes was born in Hilmar, California to John and Virginia Lopes on May, 19, 1942. He lived there until he enlisted in the US Navy. He married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Forgnone, and they lived in Long Beach while he served. They had two daughters, Leann and Laurie, and they set up their home in Turlock for the next forty years. Richard lost his beloved Carolyn to illness and married Linda Murphy in 2008 where he gained two more children, Lori and Michael.
Richard was a true faith-based family man that touched many hearts in many benevolent actions. He was an active member of Sacred Heart Church and the Knights of Columbus. Richard established his two businesses, Turlock Cabinet Shop and Spaceballs during his very rich lifetime. He loved working with wood and was a true artisan in creating his cabinetry. He has literally made cabinets for homes, offices, and churches all over Turlock, the bay area and even South Africa.
He lived his life believing that love, faith, honesty and integrity were the most precious gifts one could share. Richard is survived by his wife, Linda Murphy-Lopes, daughters Leann Allen (Kevin), Laurie Oates, Lori Murphy-Sanchez (Juan), Michael Murphy (Rocio). His brothers in birth and marriage are: John Lopes (Deanna), James Lopes (Linda), Tony Lopes (Jeannie), Allen Lopes (Lana), Paul Forgnone (Beanie), Danny Forgnone (Penny), Tom Forgnone, Gil Esquer (Rosa), Dan Raya (Maria Elena), and Phil Delgadillo. Sisters through marriage are: Shirley Siler (Ron) and Diane Jimenez (Clemente). In addition, he has eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.
Special thanks to Dr. Nirbhai Hundal, Dr. Gauravjit Singh, Dr. Natalia Colocci and Dr. David Jablons for their tireless efforts and their phenomenal collaborative approach to his medical needs.
Visitation will be held Friday, Nov 11, 2011 from 4-6pm with the recitation of the Rosary beginning at 6:00pm at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock.
Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, Nov 12, 2011 at 8:30am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1200 Lyons Ave. Turlock. Interment to be held at Turlock Memorial Park.
The family would like to establish a scholarship to honor Richard's deep appreciation for education. Donations may be made at BBVA Compass Bank to the Turlock Education Foundation c/o Richard Lopes account. Please leave your condolences at www.TurlockMemorialPark.com.
Turlock Journal
Saturday, November 12, 2011
