Xavier "Steve" Lopez

Xavier “Steve” Lopez age 68 of Griffith, IN passed away peacefully on Monday, March 3, 2025.

He is survived by his loving wife Carol Lopez; children Caroline (Roger) Hendricks and Laura (Jerry) Kaenrath; grandchildren Jonathan, Sydni, Blake, Connor, Lennox and Zooey; and canine companion Molly (“Mookie”).  His brothers Frank Mundo, Robert Mundo, and David Lopez; sisters Theresa Mundo and Carolyn Ramirez.  His sister-in-law, Sandi Gardner, who provided much needed help during his illness; and brother-in-law Jim Gardner.  Also many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents John Escobedo and Helen Lopez; brother Manuel Mundo; sister Gloria (Mundo) Jordan; and sister-in-law Jean Serna.

Steve was born on February 26, 1957 in East Chicago, IN and attended East Chicago Roosevelt High School and went on to proudly serve our country in the US Marines.

Steve retired from GATX in East Chicago, IN with 23 years of service.  He was a member of The American Legion Post 66, Griffith, IN.

Steve was a die-hard Chicago Cubs and Bears fan and was excited to see his Cubbies win the 2016 World Series, and the Bears 1986 Super Bowl win.  Steve was known throughout Griffith for his yellow Honda Magna motorcycle. He was also a fan of John Wayne movies and Motown artists, and Al Green was his favorite.

Steve enjoyed helping the neighbors by shoveling snow, raking leaves, and mowing and edging their lawns.  Steve took pride in the sharp, clean lines he maintained in his own lawn and beamed when people stopped to compliment him. He loved his time as an usher at St. Mary’s church, and enjoyed singing in the choir for a few years.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 from 3:00PM-7:00PM at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block South of Ridge Road) Highland, IN.

Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 11:00AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 525 N. Broad Street, Griffith, IN.  Family and friends are asked to meet at the church on Wednesday morning by 10:45AM.

Interment will be private.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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