Obituary of Maria (Alves) Lopes

Maria (Alves) Lopes, died peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2009 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Mrs. Lopes was the devoted wife of the late Antonio N. Lopes with whom she shared over 67 years of marriage. Mrs. Lopes was born in Portugal, and immigrated to the United States in 1959. She lived in Peabody since coming to America. For many years Maria worked as a trimmer in Peabody's leather industry. Maria will be remembered for her affection for children, particularly for her grandchildren and her great granddaughter. She also loved to baby sit and would often be enlisted to care for other families' children. Maria was also a tremendous cook, enjoyed traveling, particularly to Cape Cod and to her native Portugal, and had a passion for dancing. She loved to attend the many functions at the C.L.C. Club in Peabody and she will always be remembered by her family and many friends for her happiness and for her contagious smile. Maria is survived by her son John A. Lopes and his wife Elizabeth of Danvers, her grandchildren, Tiffany Lopes of Peabody, and Scott Lopes of Danvers, and one great grandchild Ciara Skoczylas of Peabody. In addition, Maria leaves many brothers and sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews. Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. from the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn Street (location) in Peabody followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 A.M. at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 44 Walsh Ave. in Peabody. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Visiting hours are Tuesday from 4 to 8 P.M. Burial at St. Mary's Cemetery in Salem. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Maria's name to Make a Wish Foundation, 1 Bulfinch Place, Second Floor, Boston, MA 02114.