Carlos Lopez Saldano

Passed: June 21, 2020

Obituary

Carlos Lopez Saldano passed away on June 21, 2020. He was born on January 6, 1941 in Phoenix, Arizona. Those who knew him called him “Chompie.” He served in the Army during the Vietnam War and upon return worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. advancing to Regional Manager in California, Idaho, and Texas. Carlos and Dianne, his wife of 40 years, raised their daughter Victoria in Texas where he owned a successful tire and automotive company. Upon returning to Phoenix, Carlos opened another automotive company and he and Dianne spent many happy years in Palm Lakes Village with great friends and family nearby. After retiring from his company, he worked with the San Francisco Giants during Spring Training.

Carlos was a devoted brother to Pete, Bobby, Richard, and Danny. He dedicated his life to his wife Dianne before her passing and daughter Victoria. He spent every opportunity possible with Victoria, her husband Brad, and his grandchildren Emma, Ellie, and Ben. He especially loved to teach them how to camp and fish at Woods Canyon Lake. He treasured his family and coordinated many large family Thanksgivings. He was a member of the Centaurs Car Club, American Legion Post 41, and Regional Manager of the Quihuis Annual Campout where he was known for his horseshoes and poker skills. He was a treasured friend to Cherryl and everyone he met. He was known for taking the time to talk with and help anyone who asked. His love of family, life, golf, fishing, and his charisma will be greatly missed by all.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am on Friday, June 18, 2021 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3801 E. Greenway Road, Phoenix. A committal service with military honors will be at 12:30pm at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. If you wish to make a contribution, please consider Hospice of the Valley and St. Vincent De Paul Society.

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8 responses to Carlos Lopez Saldano

  1. He was Carlos to many but was Nino to me. It was a big adjustment for me when they moved to Arizona I was used to having him down the street, hanging out with my parents, or joining us for holidays at grandmas. He always had a smile on his face and was always there to give advice. When they moved to Arizona he didn’t skip a beat, either he or Nina would call to talk to mom and dad and always would take a second to check up on me. Oh how I miss those calls, his jokes, and advice! I have so many memories growing up with him that I will cherish for a life time! Although I am so saddened he is gone I smile at the fact he has been reunited with Nina, and I am sure they are having a ball up in heaven together! I continue to pray for you, brad, and the kids Godsister. I love y’all!!

  2. Oh my Chompie, how I missed you after we moved out of Phoenix to Nogales. Mom and Dad used to tell me how much you looked after me when we were little. You were in high school but you made it a point to always come by the house to see me. I was told that I put a scar on your forehead with a metal ashtray because you told me my dress was pretty. Mom said I was almost a year old and I reached back and grabbed the ashtray from the end table and whacked you on your head. How I wish we could have been closer. I know that you and Petey are now up there with my Nina Bertha and my parents taking care of each other. With all my love primo. ❤️ ️❤️

  3. Although I only knew him for just a few years, I will always remember Carlos and miss his friendship. I admired him and learned a lot from him. He was genuinely interested in what you had to say and gave great advice.
    He’ll always be in my prayers.

  4. Frankie says:

    His enchiladas made us smile. He was the my college dad and his energy alone filled a room with happiness. I loved when he visited us in our dorm with your mom. Those memories I will always treasure. Love you victoria xoxo

  5. Sandie says:

    Tom and I cherished your friendship and will always miss you. Your time was way too short, however you are in such a better place. I’m sure my mom was thrilled to welcome you with open arms. We love you and think about you often!

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Thompson Funeral Chapel