Arthur Margarito Lopez

Arthur M. López, 87, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026, in Albuquerque. He was born January 11, 1939, in Wagon Mound, N.M., to Simon and Nickey López and was the first grandchild of the late Lorenzo and Juanita López. At the time of his passing, Arthur was the oldest living member of the Lorenzo and Juanita López family.

Arthur was a man whose quiet brilliance, kindness, and deep love for his family left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. While his accomplishments throughout life were extraordinary, he never measured himself by awards, titles, or recognition. To his family, he was simply Arthur—a loving dad, father-in-law, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother, uncle, cousin, and the steady presence so many relied on.

Raised in the small town of Ocate, N.M., with strong family values, Arthur’s academic talents were evident early in life. His parents deeply valued education, hard work, and sacrifice, and they understood the difficult decisions necessary to ensure their son would have every opportunity to succeed. With love and unwavering faith in his future, they allowed him to leave home at the age of 12 to continue his studies. He attended St. Michael’s High School before graduating from Springer High School at 15 years old. Following high school, Arthur attended New Mexico Highlands University, where he also encouraged and supported his uncles in obtaining their degrees. He later transferred to the University of New Mexico and earned his degree in chemical engineering at just 19 years old.

After graduating from college, Arthur married the mother of his children, Frances S. López (Daughter of Max and Carlota (Velarde) Sanchez). Together, they built a family and welcomed three children into the world: Ken, Terri, and Sharla, who remained among his greatest joys and proudest accomplishments.

Arthur worked for General Electric, contributing to the development of numerous patents, innovations and awards throughout his career. Despite these achievements, he remained deeply humble and never sought recognition. He carried his wisdom quietly, allowing his character and actions to speak for themselves.

A lifelong learner, Arthur was rarely without a book or Kindle in hand. He loved thoughtful conversations, learning new things, and sharing knowledge with others. In his younger years, he also enjoyed playing golf and found both peace and challenge in the game.

In 1991, he married Martha Ann López (daughter of Joe Maestas and Delfina Perea) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, they lived in Richmond, Virginia, and Corona, California, before eventually returning to Albuquerque, where they cherished being close to family once again.

Arthur took great pride in caring for his yard and plants, knowing exactly how many minutes each plant needed to be watered and on which days. Everything he did was approached with precision, care, and intention—qualities that reflected the way he lived his life.

Arthur faced his battle with Parkinson’s disease with grace, positivity, and remarkable strength. Even during difficult times, he continued to show kindness, patience, and resilience, inspiring those around him with his quiet courage. During his time at Fairwinds Assisted Living, staff members often praised Arthur to his children for his gentleness, kindness, and warm spirit. Even in challenging moments, he treated everyone with dignity, gratitude, and compassion—a reflection of the man he had always been.

Arthur was preceded in death by his wife, Martha López; his parents, Simon and Nickey López; his maternal grandparents, Sacramento Baca and Fructosa Roybal Baca; his paternal grandparents, Lorenzo and Juanita López; his brother, Elmer López; numerous aunts and uncles; and many cherished family members.

He is survived by his son, Ken López of Atlanta, Georgia; daughters, Terri Wood (Steve), of Albuquerque, N.M., and Sharla Engel (Steve), of Gilbert, Arizona; grandchildren Danna López, Jessica López Taylor (Trip), Matthew López (Travis), Kyle Wood (Candice), Zach Wood (Anna), Stephanie Engel, and Jake Engel; and great-grandchildren Layla, Ryland, Leo, and Madeleine. He is also survived by his brother, David “DD” López (Clara); his stepsons, Roger Baca (Adelina) and Paul Baca; nieces Nicole Lujan (Jason), and Mercy López (Concha); along with many extended family members and dear friends.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered for his intelligence, humility, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to family.

Services for Arthur M. López will take place at 10:30 a.m. on June 17 at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in the chapel. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of his life and legacy.