Francisco Lopez

MY THOUGHTS ON FRANK LOPEZ By Camelo Rivera, June 25, 2024 Frank Lopez was a remarkable individual with many admirable qualities and countless achievements in the local community, city, state, and federal governments, and the corporate world! This is the Frank I will never forget.  A true patriot. Proud of his culture and faithful to the Latino cause: Frank was dedicated to advancing Latino issues while also respecting and appreciating the struggles of others. He was fully fluent in English and Spanish and cherished the richness of the vast US Latino culture and its contributions to our great nation.  Global outlook. Frank worked comfortably with anyone beyond partisanship as long as the outcome was excellent and beneficial to the greater good.  Courageous and self-respecting: Frank exuded bravery and self-respect and never backed away from the entrenched and formidable barriers to Latino progress.  Level-headed, thoughtful, and reasonable: He remained grounded and never let his ego dictate or dominate his actions.  Role Model: Spoke eloquently, carried himself with dignity, always well- groomed, and appropriately dressed.  Humorous and self-deprecating: He had a profound sense of humor and enjoyed a good laugh, often making light of himself.  Tactful negotiator: His diplomatic skills made him an effective negotiator when needed.  A fighter for Justice. Frank was considerate and respectful: He treated others with consideration and respect and had no tolerance for racism, gender discrimination, or other indignities.  Devoted to building relationships: He was enthusiastic about building lasting and meaningful relationships and coalitions, exemplifying respect for diversity even before the term became a mainstream concept.  Versatile and Charismatic leader: Frank’s magnetic personality and dignified presence made him a natural leader. His presence illuminated the room. He mingled and interacted effectively with political, business, and community leaders at all levels. He was equally comfortable in the barrios, the hoods, and the glittering capitol halls of La Fortaleza in Puerto Rico, Albany, NY, and Washington, DC.  Family-oriented: He was devoted and faithful to his family. Sylvia was the beat and epicenter of his heart. His children added glory and joy. He raised them well.  Integrity: Frank tolerated no sleaziness or shadiness, keeping a spotless reputation.  Astute and politically savvy: Frank loved our Nation as a whole and deeply understood national, regional, and local politics, seeing the big picture while attending to the details of the nooks and crannies of our diverse communities.  Empowering: He was dedicated to empowering and mentoring others and never forgot his roots in the barrios of New York.  Sports enthusiast: Frank was athletic and immensely enjoyed sports of all kinds. He always talked about playing stickball in the hood. During spring and summer in Albany, he enjoyed playing softball and other sports. Frank was a man of substance, committed to creating meaningful and substantial change in our community. His many qualities inspired those around him, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. Thank you, our dear brother Frank! Gracias a nuestro hermano, Frank! May he rest in peace.

Frank and I attended Baruch Business College in the early 1970s. We were both active in the school’s Puerto Rican and Latino student organization (Puerto Ricans for Independence, Development, and Enlightenment - PRIDE) as well as Student Government. I subsequently settled in Albany, NY, as was proud to welcome him, Sylvia, and their three sons when he was appointed to high level positions in NYS Government. He then went on to even higher and more prestigious positions in the private sector in various parts of the country. Always a true friend and devoted husband and father, Frank never wavered in his love for his people and devotion to Sylvia, (his lifelong love) and his family. I am proud and blessed to have known him and to be counted among his friends. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to Sylvia and his beautiful growing family. Efraín y Diana

I am so overwhelmed with sadness to know of my dear friend and college collegue’s passing. Frank was a change agent, a leader and a truly loving family man. He will be truly missed. My heartfelt condolences to Sylvia and the entire family. Sending prayers for comfort. May he rest in peace.

We are saddened by this news. I recently spoke to Frank to catch up after all of these years. I have Fond memories of Frank. My family is sending its sympathies and prayers for his family.

PRAYING 🙏 FOR HIS MOST BEAUTIFUL SOUL & FOR ALL THE FAMIGLIA ‘s HEALING ❤️‍🩹 PEACE … FOREVER IN MY HEART ❤️ PRAYERS