Jose Lopez Jr.

Jose Lopez Jr., 66, of Dixon died on Friday March 6, 2026 at his home. Jose was born June 27, 1959 in Sterling the son of Jose and Elena (Hernandez) Lopez.

Jose graduated from Sterling High School in 1979, and shortly after joined the United States Airforce. He was stationed in California and England. Jose donated time to the Lee County Democrats office in Dixon, and had the opportunity of meeting with former President Barack Obama. Jose loved all of his nieces, nephews and would help anyone he could. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors include the Castaneda family, Castillo Family, Apperson Family, Martinez, and Sanchez family.

Jose was preceded in death by his parents Jose and Elena Lopez; five sisters Dominga Castillo, Encarnacion Martinez, Diane Sanchez, Maria Castaneda-Apperson, and Imelda Hernandez; two brothers Carmen Castaneda, and Alberto Castaneda; and four nieces Joanna Carter, Dominga Heald, Betty Castillo, and Lynn Castaneda.

Cremation rites have been entrusted to Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation, Sterling. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday March 21, 2026 from 11AM-3PM at K’s Korners 13030 Galt Road, Sterling IL.

Condolences and memorial donations may be made online at www.schillingfuneralhome.com