LAKEPORT, Calif. – Gary J. Lopez, 62, was born in Glendale, Calif., on Sept. 2, 1951, and died June 3, 2014, in Lakeport.

Gary grew up in Avenal, Calif., where he acquired the nickname “Red” (For obvious reasons). He was an outstanding athlete and even better friend.

After graduation from Avenal High in 1970 he attended West Hills College. After West Hills Gary moved to Bakersfield and began work in the oil fields. In the mid-1970s he started an overseas stint that would include work in Libya and the North Sea.

At his brother's wedding in 1978 he met Wanda Holson, whom he married in 1982. Their first son Phill was born in 1983, and shortly afterward they moved to Lakeport where Gary started work in the geothermal industry – a career that would last for 30 years. Life in Lakeport two more sons, Matt in 1984 and Tony in 1988.

Gary was a people person. He consciously maintained close relationships with friends over time and distance. He considered them family.

One of the highlights of each year was the PAR Chaser Classic Golf Tournament. For over 30 years he and a large number of friends would get together for golf, story telling, insults and laughter.

A few weeks before his death a large group of close friends came a long way to have their last party with him. He had the time of his life.

As he recently said to his sons: “Stay close, it's up to you. You either do it or you don't.”

Gary did it, and he did it well. His smiling face will be missed by all. Vaya con Dios!

Gary is survived by his wife, Wanda; sons, Phill, Matt and Tony; brother, Mark (Karen); uncle, Dave Lopez; and numerous nieces and nephews; and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Evelyn and brother Robert.

Services will be held at St. Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, 801 N. Main St., Lakeport on Saturday, June 7, at 11 a.m.

For further information call Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611 or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .