On Sunday, February 5, 2023, at 5:45 pm Art Lopez took his final breath in this life on earth. He resided in Lacey, Washington with his daughter Amy, her husband Chris, and his granddaughter Callie.  Art is survived by his Girlfriend Sharon Henman, Daughter Amy Roberts (Chris), Grand Daughter Callie Roberts, and Son Darren Lopez.

Art was the son of Juan and Aniseta Lopez and was born in Dawson, New Mexico. He was one of 4 children Sister: Juanita,  Brother: Anthony, and Sister: Corrinne.  In the early 1950's they moved as a family to Bellflower, California to permanently reside. 

Art attended Bellflower high school where he lettered in both Varsity Football and Baseball. He was All-League for Football in 1961 and All-League for Baseball in 1962.  He graduated in June 1962.  After graduating High School, Art attended Cerritos College in Norwalk, California where he continued his athletic career playing both football and baseball.  He received his AA in History and Education from Cerritos College in 1964. He then went on to further his education and attended Whittier College. He majored in Physical Education and Minored in History graduating with his Bachelor's Degree in 1968.  Art began substitute teaching in El Rancho Unified School District in 1968  and received his teaching credential in 1970 and his Master's Degree in Education from Whittier College in 1973.

Art had a lifelong dedication to teaching and coaching with a career span of 38 years. He started his teaching career at Meller Junior High in 1968  where he taught Social Studies and Physical Education and also coached the Football, Basketball, and Baseball team.  In 1973 he went on to teach at El Rancho High School where he taught Health, Drivers Education, Mathematics and Physical Education. He was the Varsity Assistant  Football Coach and Varsity Coach for the Wrestling team.  He also taught at El Toro High School and Excelsior High School until he moved over to La Mirada High School in the late 1970s where he taught Physical Education and Weight Lifting. He coached his final Football Season in 1991 - 1992 where they took home a CIF championship. He inspired students and athletes for 38 years and retired from teaching in 2006.

 After retiring, Art continued to stay fit by working out every day at 24-Hour Fitness. He enjoyed time with his lifelong friends whether it was for a beer or a dinner out, he always made time for those he loved and cared about. He loved the beach, outdoors, and active lifestyle.  

In October 2014, Art reconnected with his college sweetheart, Sharon Henman. They enjoyed time together, walks on the beach, concerts in the park, puzzles, going to church, and living retirement life together. Sharon was the love of his life and he was very grateful for the love they shared together.

Art will be deeply missed by so many who loved him. Life will never be the same without him and as we grieve together we reflect on all the joy he has brought so many people in his lifetime.

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