James F. Lopez, 67

James F. Lopez of West Deptford, N.J., formerly of Kalispell, “suddenly went home to be with His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” on Oct. 3, 2012, of a massive heart attack, at the age of 67.

A tender hearted, warrior for the Lord, Jim was passionately devoted to his faith in the Lord and to his family, leaving a Godly heritage to his children and grandchildren. 

Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., he graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School and attended Montana State University, where he fell in love with the rugged beauty of the state as well as his future wife, Virginia “Ginger” Gay. 

Following his graduation from the University of Montana, he proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1969-1977, and was a veteran of the Vietnam War, during which he flew CH-47 Chinook helicopters. 

Prior to retirement, Jim worked as a business manager in various Fortune 500 Companies throughout the U.S. 

Jim had a very special relationship with the Lord. 

He loved sharing God’s word with others through a weekly radio ministry (97.1 FM—KALS), leading Bible studies as a pastor and as the founder of Stepping Stones Ministries. 

In his celebration of life, Jim enjoyed using his artistic talents, drawing and spending time outdoors, either boating or sailing on the water or taking in the splendor of the Rocky Mountains. However, spending time with and praying for his family was always paramount.

He is the beloved husband of 47 years to Ginger; devoted father of Kimberly S. Jones and Danny of York, Pa., and James Chris Lopez and Chari of Wildwood Crest, N.J.; loving grandfather of Jacob and Hannah Jones, and Nathan and Luke Lopez; cherished son of the late Anna and Armand Lopez; brother of the late John and Andrew Lopez; and loyal friend to their dog Gracey.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing at 11 a.m. and funeral service at noon Tuesday in The Lord’s Vineyard Church, 301 Colonial Avenue, West Deptford, N.J. Graveside services and military honors will be in the Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown, N.J. Services in Montana will be scheduled at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to KALS FM Radio, 106 Cooperative Way, Kalispell, MT 59901. 

Tributes and memories may be shared at www.mcgfuneral.com. Arrangements are by McGuinness Funeral Home, Woodbury, N.J. (800-993-0888)