Obituary of George Lopez

George A Lopez Sr., 76, of Vineland went home to be with the Lord, after a brief illness on Sunday May 1, 2011, with his loving wife by his side. George began his working career at Bridgeton Dye & Finishing Company where he also served as shop steward. He later worked for the Textile Workers Union of America as a business agent. He then became employed by the Cumberland County Sheriff's Department as a cook and worked his way up through the ranks to become a senior captain. After he retired in 1999, he was employed at Sears in Vineland as a loss prevention agent. He studied martial arts for over 50 years and was a well respected and renowned Grand Master attaining the rank of 10th Dan in Aiki-Jitsu. George was the founder and chief instructor of the Aiki-Jitsu Association. For many years, Sensei Lopez was called upon to instruct Aiki-Jitsu at various law enforcement agencies including the US Justice Department, DEA, Burlington Police Academy, and the State of NJ Correctional Officers Training Academy. Years ago George had Dojos in the area and also gave many private lessons. While at the sheriff's department he successfully put together and trained a SWAT team. George also studied Judo and enjoyed fencing. Throughout his life, he had a special love for animals. He enjoyed training dogs and especially loved caring for horses. He was a member of the Society of Black Belts as well as a lifetime member of the PBA. George loved the Lord and was an active member in good standing of Life in Christ Outreach Ministries, Bridgeton, New Jersey. George was known for his keen sense of humor; he especially enjoyed riding his motorcycle with his sons and spending time with his family and friends. George was a wonderful Godly man who was always there to help others no matter who they were. He touched the lives of many by his caring compassionate way and touched the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. George asked that he always be loved and never forgotten. He is survived by his devoted wife Margaret of 34 years; sons, Michael, George, Steven and daughter JoAnn of FL; sons, George, Anthony and Joseph of NJ (and spouses); sisters, Millie, Marion, Pat, Alice and Ann (and spouses); Many Grandchildren, Great-grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews. He was especially loved by his in-laws, Stephen and JoAnn Acocella. George is predeceased by his parents, Salvatore Dugo and Blasina Lopez; his brother, Daniel; and sisters, Rosalie and Beatrice and sister-in-law, Antonia Segond. A funeral home visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:30am to 11:30am followed by a Funeral Service at 11:45am with Pastor Philip L. Cornwell eulogizing at the Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland. Burial will follow in Siloam Cemetery, Vineland. Arrangements are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360 The family strongly suggests that, if desired, donations be made in George's memory to Life in Christ Outreach Ministries, P.O. Box 154, Deerfield Street, NJ 08313. To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com