Filigonio "Phil" Lopez's Obituary
Phil Lopez—our beloved brother, uncle, great uncle, and friend—84 of Salt Lake City, born Dec. 1, 1936 in El Rito, New Mexico, to Lucas and Amadita Salazar Lopez, passed away from this earthly life Dec. 5, 2020.
He married Dorothy Trujillo Lopez, his “best one,” June 14, 1964, in Elko, Nevada, renewing their vows on Dec. 4, 1982, in St. Patrick Catholic Church.
Phil was drafted at age 24, serving two years in Germany during the Vietnam era in the United States Army as a specialist E4 being honorably discharged in New York April 30, 1963.
Phil completed four years of education at Salt Lake Trade Technical Institute, earning a degree as a Certified Welder and Auto Mechanic. Phil was employed at Mark Steel Corporation for 30-plus years. After retiring from the steel-fabrication industry, he worked for Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary, driving and servicing viewings and funerals for several years.
Phil was a member of the American Legion Post 71. He was a devoted Catholic, a member of St. Patrick’s parish, serving faithfully in many capacities and touching the lives of many people. He will be remembered for his “chile verde” cooked annually at the church carnival. He was a talented bowler in the American Bowling Congress, winning many championships. He relished gardening and took great pleasure in sharing the bounty of his harvest with family and friends. He was the “go-to” guy for roasting green chile. He loved his trips to Wendover and took pride in sharing his winnings. Phil had a love for all animals (especially his two dogs, Macho and Pancho) and charmed his great nieces and nephews with his bunnies, cats and turkey. His prized cap collection enchanted all who walked in the door. His loyalty was to the NFL Denver Broncos, displaying memorabilia throughout his home—go Broncos!
Phil developed lifelong friendships with everyone he met, including coworkers, clergy, fellow parishioners, children of friends and friends of friends! He will be greatly missed by all.
He’s survived by sister Leonila Dominguez (Texas), brother Eloy Lopez (California), nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and primos y primas. He’s preceded in death by wife Dorothy Trujillo Lopez, parents Lucas and Amadita Salazar Lopez, brothers Carlos Lopez (Tonnie) and Joe Lopez (Marie), and sister Rose Avila.
Many thanks to family, friends and neighbors who loved and generously looked after Phil. A special thanks to Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary, the Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Healthcare System and Superior Home Care & Hospice.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 10, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Neil O’Donnell Funeral Home, 372 East 100 South, where friends may call one hour prior. Committal, Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 4th Avenue and T Street.
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