Miguel Lopez

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Miguel Cecena Lopez, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, friend, who left world on September 19, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona. Born on May 18, 1934, in Nogales, Sonora, Miguel lived a life rich in love and family, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts all who knew him.

Miguel C Lopez was born and raised in Nogales, Sonora. He was the 2nd child of 5 and was not lucky enough to have had completed an education as he had to drop out from elementary school when he was in fourth grade, time when his father passed away and he started working to help with the family finances. He immigrated to the US when he was 16 years old, got married and had five children.

Miguel was a supportive father as he was always there for his children and worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He was a very loving person and was admired for always being so affectionate with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His grandchildren enjoyed his storytelling as they shared these with each other. His laughter would fill any room upon entering and he had a great sense of humor as he enjoyed making people laugh. He loved to listen to music as well as singing his favorite songs with the family and socially. He worked many different jobs at a very young age, and went into auto mechanic career, which is what he enjoyed the most and was very proud of being a diesel mechanic. His proudest accomplishment was when he was certified as a “Doctor of Diesel Motors”.

 Although he loved to play baseball and go hunting with his friends, his passion was bowling. Such passion led him and 12 of his closest friends to get together and build a small bowling alley in Nogales, Sonora. Making this sport available to many local residents. The famous “13-20 Club Bowling Alley” and the ”Colonial” event/dance hall housed many great memories that the members and their and children enjoyed and still talk about. He loved photography and enjoyed taking pictures of anything and everything! There are many, many pictures archived, along with taking pictures he had a camera collection which is one of a kind. Miguel was a past member of the local Knights of Columbus.

Miguel Enjoyed watching boxing matches and lately could spend hours watching old boxing matches on TV.  He loved having fresh flowers at home and preferred white flowers of any kind.

Miguel is survived by his devoted children: Miguel (Jessica), Maria Jesus Arevalo, Myrna Durazo (Luis), and Lourdes Felix (Ruben). His legacy continues through his loving family, including his cherished sisters, Cleotilde Estrada and Delfina Arzate, along with his daughter-in-law, Lourdes. Miguel took immense pride in being a grandfather to 11 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 8 great-grandchildren, plus he was the great-great-grandfather to one. Each of them carries a piece of Miguel in their hearts, recalling the joyful moments they shared, the lessons he imparted, and the warmth of his unwavering support.

Though he leaves behind a large and loving family, Miguel is preceded in death by his son Roberto Bobby; son-in-law Hector; brother Manuel Lopez; and sister Julieta Madero. The loss of these dear family members weighs heavily on all who remain, but we find solace in the memories they created together.

Miguel's life will be celebrated through a series of services on September 27, 2024. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Martinez Funeral Chapels in Nogales, starting at 9:00 AM, followed by a Prayer Service at 11:00 AM. A Mass in his honor will be held at San Felipe de Jesus Parish at 1:00 PM, culminating in his burial at Nogales City Cemetery at 2:30 PM.

In these moments of remembrance, we will celebrate Miguel’s profound love, generous spirit, and the joy he brought into our lives. The footprints he leaves behind will forever guide us, reminding us of his kindness and strength. Though he may no longer walk among us, Miguel’s legacy will live on through the love of his family and friends, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.