The family of Trinidad "Trini" Vargas Lopez, 76, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to accompany their Hero from the church to his final resting place. We will be honored to do so.
Trini Lopez served in the US Army from May 25, 1966 until his honorable discharge on May 24, 1968, and was discharged at the rank of Private First Class. He spent much of his time in Vietnam where he was injured in combat, and was awarded the Vietnam service medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Expert Badge (Rifle) and was awarded a Purple Heart.
Trinidad graduated in 1964 from Colton Union High School and attended San Bernardino Valley College. His career began in Corrections, after the military, holding various titles and ended as a Correctional Counselor 2. He served as a Peace Officer until his retirement after 30 years. He was a man who lived a life of service, to his country and to his community.
His hobbies included restoring classic cars. His enjoyment was camping with his family, boating at the river and traveling. Favorite past times involved family backyard barbeques and family gatherings. Our Hero Trinidad V. Lopez will greatly be missed and treasured in our hearts forever!
Trini is survived by Spouse of 51 years Linda Lopez. Children Trini (son) Kim (daughter) Tamara (daughter) Michael (son) Alissa (daughter), 16 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, (plus a set of twins on the way) and sister Betty P. (Dolly).
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Law Enforcement & Military Veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the Hero and his family from the church services to his final resting place. Please see the time table if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
NOTE: IF YOU WISH TO MEET AT THE CEMETERY PLEASE FORM A FLAG LINE FOR ARRIVAL OF THE PROCESSION AT NO LATER THAN 1130 HOURS.Time Table for Wednesday, 03 AUG 22:1030 - Stage at San Salvador Church, 178 W. K St., Colton, CA 92324
https://goo.gl/maps/JSE7sqXkpFaA63Zw71045 - Mission briefing
1100 - Est Flag Line for transfer of Hero to coach
1115 - Est KSU to Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518
https://goo.gl/maps/qpYpcPHwA8xVgEWy9 (approx 15 miles)
1145 - Est arrival at RNC
1215 - KSU to assigned shelter for Flag Line, Service and Military Honors.
R/C Candelario "Candyman" Rodriguez
So Cal PGR Ride CaptainUS Navy Vietnam Vet
Blue Star Gramps x 3
Gold Star Uncle
candelario4u@aol.com
909-973-4195
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and respect for our Heroes. No talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe the 15 MPH speed limit. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we are honoring.
