Jose Lopez Sr. passed away on September 10th, 2026, peacefully surrounded by family. He is survived by his children Jorge, Jose Jr., and Diana; his 6 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and beloved nieces and nephews.

Jose emigrated to the USA in 1967, moving to Milwaukee in 1969, where he worked various jobs baking and saving up. In 1973, he rented a small space inside a Mexican grocery store on the Southside. He ran it successfully and was able to save up enough to purchase his first stand alone business, and “Lopez Bakery” was born on 3rd & Lapham. He operated stores in many parts of the city- on 6th & National, 16th & Lincoln, and 11th & Mitchell, as well as bakeries in Racine and Waukesha.

The peak of his success was in the late 90’s, where the family operated 5 stores and had 96 employees. COVID took its effect, and although the business came through and survived, in the long term the business was not able to catch up and return to pre-COVID levels. In 2023, after 50 years in business, Lopez Bakery closed its doors.

Being one of the first established Latino businesses in Milwaukee made a great impact, and many others have since been able to step up and continue the legacy.

A funeral mass for Jose will take place on Wednesday, September 16th, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish (605 S. 4th St., Milwaukee WI, 53204). Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 AM.