Salvador "Sal" Albertus Lopez's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce Salvador “Sal” Albertus Lopez, age 45, passed on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Through his journey, Sal touched all those he met with his charismatic, infectious energy. He will be remembered for his devotion to family and friends and his love for learning, soccer, music, and art.
Sal was born on November 7, 1980, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Salvador Lopez, Jr., and Sylvia Anne Nieman.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Piet and Elvira Nieman, and Salvador and Nolberta Lopez, and his father-in-law, Thomas Joseph Smith.
Sal is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Nicole Smith Lopez; his cherished children, Salvador Thomas Lopez and Robert “Robbie” Leon Lopez; his mother, Sylvia Nieman; his father, Salvador Lopez, Jr.; his brother, Miguel Lopez; and his sister, Aria Lopez; and a host of other family and friends.
Sal was raised in San Antonio, Texas, where he built the foundation for a life marked by faith, leadership, and strong friendships. He received the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and attended Jackson Middle School and Lee High School in San Antonio. During his time at Lee High School, he was honored to be voted in as Junior Class President of his high school. Sal continued his education at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas where he graduated with a BA in Sociology in 2004 and was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.
Sal had many accomplishments as a gifted multi-sport athlete, whose heart ultimately belonged to soccer. He played as a forward for Southwestern University where he set a record for most goals scored in a season, a record that stood for over a decade. After graduation, he moved to Houston and joined Aria Soccer Club in 2004 and continued with his team until his passing. His talent, dedication, and leadership contributed to the team’s many successes, including: 16 League Titles, 5 Memorial Cups, 12 State Cups, 5 Regional Tournaments, and 2 National Champion Cups.
Sal also shared his love of soccer with his sons, coaching both his boys at ODC Soccer. He also volunteered as a member of the ODC Soccer Board from 2022-2025 serving in several roles, including Director of Coaching and Volunteer Coordinator.
Sal spent the entirety of his career in sales working for TIFCO Industries where his natural ability to connect with other people brought him early success. He reached the Million Dollar Club status within the first 5 years, then continued to distinguish himself with several President’s Club awards.
A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Friday, July 3, 2026, at St. Rose of Lima, 3600 Brinkman St. in Houston, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorials will go towards the children’s educational fund, which may be accessed at:
https://www.my529.org - Salvador: WX0R19, Robbie: P2A0EU
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