Maria Maddalena Lopez, 89, of Coldwater passed away Saturday, November 18, 2023, at the LakeHouse Coldwater.
Private family services will be held, with interment to be at Oak Grove Cemetery.
Born on November 9, 1934, in Borgo Partenope, Cosenza, Italy, Maria was the cherished daughter of Guiseppe and Emilia (Perna) DePaolo. She spent her childhood in the picturesque countryside of southern Itay as one of eight siblings.
October 19, 1952, Maria married Nicholas Lopez at the Duomo Di Cosenza. At the tender age of 18, Maria embarked on a new chapter in the United States, where she embraced the nation and eventually became a proud United States citizen on May 28, 1958.
A dedicated wife, mother, and homemaker, Maria faced the challenges of life with unwavering strength. After the death of her husband, she single-handedly raised her two children Lucy and Tony, who were 7 and 5 at the time. Maria’s resilience was a testament to her role as the heart and soul of her family.
Maria’s work ethic was admirable, having been employed at the former Shaw Shoe Factory and later spending many years at Whirlpool in Laverne, TN, where she eventually retired. During those years in Tennessee, she lived near her son, Tony, who looked after and cared for her.
A woman of many talents, Maria imparted the richness of her Italian culture to her family, passionately preserving traditions through her skills in gardening and cooking. She was devoted to her Catholic faith and Italian heritage. Her stories were a gateway to the meaning of life, shared with her friends, family, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
In her later years, Maria resided in Coldwater, Michigan, surrounded by the love and care of her daughter, Lucy, who was by her side as she passed away.
Maria is survived by her daughter Lucia (Craig) Davidson, her son Anthony (Mary) Lopez, her granddaughters Danielle (David) Taylor and Alicia (Gabriel) Gomez, and her great-grandchildren Ava, Cecilia, and Emilia. She is also survived by her sister Concetta Miceli, her brother Luigi DePaolo, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins residing in the United States, Canada, and Italy.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be directed to the LakeHouse Activities Fund 150 Northshore Dr., Coldwater, Michigan 49036.
Maria Maddalena Lopez will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, unwavering love, and the enduring legacy she leaves within the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her. May she rest in eternal peace.
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