Ted Lopez, director of the Small Business Development Center at UNM-Los Alamos, died Wednesday, June 15. He leaves behind a family and community he worked so hard to support.

In his role at UNM-LA, Lopez helped many clients launch or develop their small businesses. He was an integral part of the UNM-LA family and the Los Alamos economic development community.

 “We were saddened to receive the news that Ted Lopez passed away,” said Cindy Rooney, CEO of UNM-LA. “He was a beloved member of our UNM-LA family, a wonderful asset to our community, and an exceptionally kind and honorable man. Ted was passionate about economic development for the region and provided valuable assistance to numerous business owners in northern New Mexico.” 

Colleagues have noted that they will remember Lopez’s kindness, his humility and his expertise in small business development.

In an email, Kathy Keith, director of Los Alamos Community Relations and Partnerships Office, noted that Ted was “a great addition to the economic development community where he is also well known and respected.” 

Lopez was a U.S. Navy Veteran and earned his MBA from UNM’s Anderson School of Management. Prior to joining UNM-LA in 2013, he had over 27 years of experience working with Mountain Bell/US West Communications/Qwest Communications and serving the business technology needs of small business clients in northern New Mexico.

Rooney added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ted’s family and friends. He will be greatly missed.”