Nicholas Rafael Lopez

“My last salutations are to them Who knew me imperfect and loved me.” Tagore Raleigh - Nick Lopez died by his own hand after a long and ultimately losing battle with mental illness.  He was 21.  He brought love and joy to many people.  A sweet young man who had an amazing mechanical and artistic ability, he was looking forward to pursuing a career in automechanics until the terrible pain and fear that was with him every day made him unable to fulfill that dream. Nick knew he was loved and he loved and cherished those who knew him well.  He and his brother, Max, have a very close bond which will never be broken. He is survived by his mother, Victoria Bender, his father, Rafael “RJ” Lopez, his brother Max Lopez, and many family and friends. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 17, at 6 PM at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 831 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh.  There will be a reception at the funeral home following the memorial service. Memorials may be made to NAMI of Wake County, PO Box 12562, Raleigh, NC 27605-2562.