It is with great sadness and sorrow that Steven Manuel Lopez, our beloved son, brother, father, uncle, nephew, grandson and friend was called to be home with our Lord on Oct. 16, 2020.

Steve was born on July 16, 1982 in Santa Maria to Joe and Cindy Lopez. He was the middle child, following his brother Joe M. Lopez, Jr., followed by Alissa M. Lopez and Alexis M. Lopez.

Steve attended local schools in the area, Rice Elementary School, Fesler Jr. High School, St. Joseph High School and Righetti High School.

Steve was a natural athlete and played basketball and baseball throughout his youth and throughout his high school years. He also played travel ball and All Stars, which he loved with a passion.

He made many lifelong friends during his playing days on the court and on the field. His favorite teams were the 49’ers and San Francisco Giants. During Steve’s junior year at Righetti High School, he was in a car accident that placed many obstacles for the remainder of his 21 years of his life on earth.

His family was told he would not have a meaningful life as his injuries were severe. Through God’s grace, he lived and went on to graduate from Righetti High School 2001 and then on to completing school of barbering and receiving his license.

Though he lived through this tragic accident, he did feel there was a reason he lived. He stayed optimistic, was kind, compassionate, loving, funny, and loved teasing and joking. His demeanor was always easy going and kind.

“Family First” and “Forgiven,” as well as many other tattoos that he had, reflected that of the man he was and desired to be.

Steve loved being a master barber and took great pride that he followed in his family’s legacy in barbering, especially his father Joe.

Steve is survived by his parents Joe and Cindy Lopez; older brother Joe M. Lopez, Jr. (Roe Cazares); siblings Alissa M. Lopez, Alexis M. Lopez (Eric Aranda); one son Christian J. Lopez of Bakersfield, California; two nieces Sofia and Isabel Lopez; three nephews Vincent and Adrian Lopez and Nicholas Aranda; and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents Nash I. and May Lou Guerrero, Toby A. Lopez, as well has many other family members he held close to his heart.

To leave a condolence for the family, visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com.