Maria Estela (Puentes Zarate) Lopez

Maria Estela Lopez, age 65 of East Chicago, IN passed away Friday, November 7, 2025 at home. She is survived by her husband, Pedro Lopez; children and grandchildren.  Maria was the heart and soul of our family who kept the family united.  She was an exceptional caring mother, wife, and grandma who always put everyone's needs before her own.  Her unique spirit left an enduring mark on everyone she encountered.  She had a heart of Gold and dedicated herself to making a positive impact on the lives of others.  Maria was a very strong woman who fought cancer to the end.  She was a believer and follower of Christ and she was consecrated to the precious blood of Jesus.  Our mom was the ultimate chef of our family, always delighting us with her amazing food.  Her hobby was shopping at her favorite stores, Kohls and Burlington.  She always kept a clean, great smelling and welcoming home.  Her adoration were her 13 grandkids.  She was a true example of love, faith, and the importance of a strong family bond. She left a great legacy of love.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 10:00 am at St. Mary Church, corner of Indianapolis Blvd. & 144th Street, East Chicago, IN with Rev. Stephen Gibson officiating.  Burial to follow at St. John Cemetery, Hammond, IN.  Visitation at the FIFE FUNERAL HOME, 4201 Indianapolis Blvd., East Chicago, IN will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, November 14, 2025 and from 9:30 am to 10:00 am at the Church on Saturday morning.

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