E. "Gil" Lopez

December 27, 1937 - March 14, 2013

Efron Gilbert Lopez, one of two sons of Efron and Alice (Aguirre) Lopez, was born December 27, 1937 in Lincoln, Nebraska. He attended school in Lincoln, and graduated from Lincoln High School. On March 10, 1956 Gil was married to Judy Lobush in Kansas, and they were blessed with two daughters, Gail and Laurie. The couple later divorced. As a member of the United States Navy, Gil served during the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge he returned to his hometown. After high school Gil had attended carpentry school, and he worked for a while as a carpenter in Lincoln. He then joined the steamfitters and plumbers union, working as a pipefitter in Lincoln until his divorce. At that time Gil travelled the country working pipefitting jobs at various locations until joining the construction of Cooper Nuclear Station at Brownville, Nebraska. He then travelled again on jobs before retiring. On June 12, 1992 Gil married Elizabeth (Allgood) Rainey in Auburn, Nebraska, where they made their home. Beth?s two sons became members of Gil?s family. Gil held a lifetime membership in Steamfitters and Plumbers Local #464 and belonged to American Legion Post #23 in Auburn. He enjoyed gardening and was always good about sharing his produce with others. He was known for the great salsa he made from the vegetables he grew. Gil had a special love for his two poodles, Brigitte and Penny. Following a fall at his home, Gil was transported to the Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn and from there to St. Elizabeth?s Medical Center in Lincoln. After treatment at St. E?s, he was transferred to Good Samaritan Society-Auburn. Gil passed away at Good Sam on Thursday, March 14, 2013 at the age of 75 years, 2 months, and 15 days. His parents and brother Donald preceded him in death. Gil is survived by his wife Elizabeth of Auburn; daughters Gail Lopez of Lincoln; Laurie Heiserman of Lincoln; step-sons Steve Rainey of Hamburg, IA; Christopher Rainey of Glenwood, IA; grandchildren Josh and Jenny Heiserman and Rick Lopez; great-grandchild Hayle Heiserman; other relatives and many friends. Funeral services were Monday, March 18, 2013 at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn, officiated by Rev. Dianne Bowman. Honorary bearers were Dallas McMann, Dick Stich, Jeff Falk, Gary Aylers, and Mike Draper. The body was cremated following services, and inurnment of ashes will be Thursday, March 21, 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Vernon Cemetery at Peru, with graveside military honors by American Legion Post #23 of Auburn.