Alfonso's obituary
Alfonso German López Álvarez
Beloved Father, Husband, Brother, and Son
Alfonso Lopez was born February 18, 1948 in Mexico City, Mexico to Angel Marcelo and Adela Lopez. He and his five siblings grew up surrounded by the magic of music while his father played in the renowned Los Violines Mágicos de Villafontana. Inspired by the joy his father’s music brought him, Alfonso loved to collect, restore, play and listen to violins.
As a young teenager, Alfonso immigrated with his family to the United States, first living in Lake Tahoe before finally making their home in Stockton. Alfonso graduated from Franklin High School in 1966 and later attended San Joaquin Delta College.
Alfonso dedicated his 36-year career to the State of California Department of Corrections. He began his career as a disciplinary officer, eventually becoming an investigator, and retired as an assistant director. However, Alfonso was known for a multitude of other passions and achievements throughout his life. He moved to Los Angeles in the early 70s to pursue his talents in radio, becoming one of the youngest Marketing Directors at the time for Spanish radio KWKW and even hosting his own show called "La Sombra." In the late 70s, Alfonso returned from LA and opened the first taqueria in Stockton, La Adelita. In the late 80s and 90s, he was the Program Director for Spanish radio KTRB, known for hosting the “Latino Dating Game” and even heard as an announcer for the 49ers. Alfonso advocated for the local Latino community, helping to lead and grow programs such as LULAC and Mariachi Los Mesteños of Delta College. In 1992, he was honored as a recipient of the Points of Light Award by President George H. W. Bush while serving as the Program Director at St. Mary’s Interfaith Dining Room.
His greatest achievements were realized by his role as a father. Alfonso welcomed his first child to the world at 17 years old and his last at 50 years old. He watched his children grow through different stages of their own lives: graduate from high school and college, develop their passions, get married, and have children of their own. His family was the most important aspect of his world, and he was an equally dedicated brother and son. Alfonso lived such a full life and enjoyed spending his retirement surrounded by his family and friends. On March 7th, 2024, Alfonso passed away in Stockton, CA at 76 years old.
He is survived by his mother Adela; his siblings Diana, Jaime, Marcelo, Carmen, and Alejandro; his children Kris, Stephanie Monique, Diana, Alfonso II, and Adela Celine; and his fiancé Antonia. Alfonso also leaves behind his grandchildren Amanda, Kristi, Ryan, Aubrey, and Emiliano, and great-grandson Nolan; his former wife Yolanda; family, friends, and loved ones who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father, Angel Marcelo, whom he honored every day of his life through stories and music.
A memorial service will celebrate Alfonso's life and legacy at Colonial Rose Chapel on March 22nd from 11 AM - 1:30 PM. We will all remember Alfonso for his service to the community, his passion for music and radio, his sense of humor, his kind personality, and his immense love for his friends and family. To those who knew and cherished him, Alfonso was the best friend, brother, son, and father ever had. Although Alfonso may no longer be with us in person, the memories and lessons he shared will continue to guide and inspire us, and he will forever remain in our hearts.