San Juana (Juanie) Z. Lopez

In loving memory of San Juana (Juanie) Z. Lopez, we celebrate a remarkable life filled with love, dedication, and joy. Born on August 13, 1951, in Hoopeston, Illinois, Juanie was a cherished daughter of Matias and Saturnina Zarate. She departed this world peacefully at DHR Hospice in Edinburg, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family. Juanie's life was a testament to hard work, family devotion, and unwavering faith. After graduating from Rio Grande City High School, she embarked on a career that saw her toiling in the asparagus and corn fields, contributing her efforts to the Joan of Arc and Stokely canning companies in Hoopeston. Her work ethic was a reflection of her character, always striving to provide and care for those she loved. Juanie and her beloved husband, Dupertino Lopez, shared a beautiful journey that began in Danville, Illinois. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Jorge Luis and the late Vanessa D. Lopez. Juanie's legacy lives on in her son, her four grandchildren—Andrew, Alexis, Aaliyah, & Ashton Lopez—and her two great-grandchildren, who will carry her spirit forward. A devoted sister and aunt, Juanie is survived by her sister, Guadalupe (Bob) Z. Kirkhart, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws. She was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Vanessa, and her siblings Severa Z. Cisneros, Flor Estela Z. Villarreal, Braulio & Esperanza Zarate, Baltazar & Angelita Zarate, Pedro Zarate, Matias & Amelia Zarate Jr., and numerous nieces and nephews. Juanie was member of Holy Family Church in La Grulla and St. Anthony Church in Hoopeston during the summer months. Her love for playing loteria and dancing brought joy to many gatherings, and her warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. Family was the core of Juanie's life. She shared a special bond with her older nieces, treating them as sisters, and her loving nature left an indelible mark on all her family members. Her presence was a gift, and she was adored by all who knew her. A memorial service will be held to honor Juanie's life on August 10, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Holy Family Church in La Grulla, Texas. Funeral mass will be at Holy Family Catholic Church in La Grulla at 10 AM Tuesday, August 11, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to Holy Family Catholic Church in La Grulla for masses or a charity of your choice. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to those who supported Juanie in her final weeks, a testament to the love she inspired. Your kindness and presence were deeply appreciated. San Juana (Juanie) Z. Lopez will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all those she touched. Her life was a blessing, and her memory will be cherished forever.