Ignacia "Nacha" Lopez

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ignacia “Nacha” Lopez, who departed from this world on February 2, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri, at the remarkable age of 106. Born on January 14, 1920, in Fort Worth, Texas, Nacha was a sign of strength and resilience, the daughter of immigrant parents who forged a new life in the United States. She was the first in her family to be born on American soil, laying the foundation for the generations that followed.

Nacha’s journey began as a legal secretary in Kansas City, where her sharp intellect and fierce determination shone brightly. Her educational pursuits included graduating from high school and attending Kansas City Business School, which equipped her with the skills required in her professional career. However, when her beloved husband, Michael Lopez Sr., started a shoe repair business, she wholeheartedly joined him, first part-time and then full-time, managing finances and bookkeeping with an impressive organization that became a hallmark of her life.

Those who knew Nacha will remember her unyielding spirit, fiesty side, and nurturing nature, characteristics that made her a mother-figure not only to her own children but to all her grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She had a remarkable ability to motivate and guide others, always steering them toward personal growth and betterment. A fiercely passionate woman, her devotion to God and her faith was wholehearted, like the love for her family, and she was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren, cherishing moments spent together that now form the bedrock of family memories and traditions.

Nacha was an avid traveler whose adventures took her across the United States and to cherished locations in Mexico, as well as South America and Europe, creating lasting memories that her family holds dear. Many of her happiest moments were spent exploring the world alongside her husband, Michael Sr., her sister, and other family and friends, traveling to both far-off places and familiar spots. Her zest for life, and a surprising dare-devil spirit, extended to her youth, where athletic pursuits like swimming and dancing at the Guadalupe Center showcased some of her many abilities.

Her family will forever treasure the relationship they shared, with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren inspired by Nacha’s exciting tales, the sense of adventure, and a diligent work ethic that she instilled in them. Nacha’s legacy lives on through her children, Mary Louise (Pete) Ford and Michael (Sandra) Lopez Jr.; her grandchildren including Bobby Sifuentes, Ronnie (Marsha) Sifuentes, Tony Sifuentes, Vicki Braton-Sifuentes, Christine Lopez, Angela (Steve) Woodruff, and Michael Lopez III, along with ten great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Nacha is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Michael Lopez Sr., as well as her cherished parents, Guadalupe and Mercedes (Soto) Barbosa; her siblings: Joe, infant Sal I, infant Beatrice, Connie, Sal II, Henry, Tony, Frank, and Jess; and her grandson, David Sifuentes.

Nacha Lopez has left behind a tapestry of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Her fierce, feisty, and nurturing spirit will be forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved her. As we bid farewell to our beloved matriarch, we celebrate the remarkable life she lived--filled with joy and accomplishment—blessed and thankful for the 106 years we shared and the mark she leaves on our lives. May she rest peacefully, surrounded by the love she so freely gave throughout her long and fulfilling time with us.

All services will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church, 8510 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO, on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10am, with Mass of Christian Burial following at 11am. Nacha will be laid to rest at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO, alongside her husband and family. Memorial Contributions are suggested to: Blue Ridge Mall Optimist Club, 11154 Blue Ridge Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64134, an organization Nacha and Michael Sr. were very involved with while operating their business in the Blue Ridge Mall.