Oswaldo D. Lopez
1952-2025
With great sorrow, we announce that Oswaldo D. López passed away peacefully at home on Christmas evening 2025 at the age of 73. We owe special gratitude to UCLA Health Cancer Care medical staff and Dr. Greenwald for attempting to prolong his life. A proud and life-long Santa Barbaran, Oswaldo was charismatic, unforgettable, and exuded positivity, ad-infinitum. As son, brother, husband, uncle, colleague, mentor, and friend, he remained deeply connected to the community, culture, and family that shaped his life.
Oswaldo departed with his wife and partner of 30 years, Angela Carroll, at his side, knowing how deeply loved he was. He is survived by his mother, Carmen V. López, and 2 siblings, Cynthia Castaneda (López) and Paul López. He is further survived by his siblings’ spouses, and Angela’s 3 siblings, Valerie Carroll, Gilbert Carroll, and Cathleen Cohen (Carroll), and their spouses. He is preceded in death by his much-adored father Ventura (Benny) López, and Clyde and Christine Carroll. Oswaldo’s 22 nieces and nephews will cherish his attitude, each forever claiming they are Oswaldo’s favorite. Reciprocally, Oswaldo populated beliefs that he was the “Favorite Uncle” and the “Favorite Son-In-Law.”
Known affectionately as “Os,” he was raised on Dos Pueblos Ranch until the age of 9, then graduated Santa Barbara High School, and with the strong encouragement of his parents, went on to earn a Bachelors and Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley. “Cal,” he said, changed his life. Because of the depth of experience UC Berkeley afforded him, he gave back in spades as an Alumnus, helping the next generation with scholarships and learning opportunities. He grew up grounded in strong family values, respect, and faith – principles passed down through generations and evident in the way he lived his strong life.
Professionally, Oswaldo’s contributions were diverse, ranging from affordable housing to high rise offices early in his career, specializing in hotel development in recent years. His dedication and expertise in the hospitality industry left a lasting mark on the projects he helped bring to life in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Denver, Hawaii, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Os was an avid golfer who enjoyed exploring new courses and participating in fundraising tournaments. He was a loyal fan of the Los Angeles Rams, Denver Broncos, and the Los Angeles Lakers, often humoring family and friends with sports trivia. He also fascinated the family by showing off dancing skills from his era, a favorite being “Tighten Up” by Archie Bell & The Drells.
Oswaldo lived fully, guided by faith, family, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. He will be remembered for his strength, generosity of spirit, and the love he shared with those closest to him. Though he has been called home, his presence will remain in the prayers, memories, and hearts of all who knew him.
May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by God’s grace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who loved him.
In lieu of flowers, please honor Oswaldo with a donation to the UCLA Cancer Center in Santa Barbara or the American Diabetes Association.
Viewing: Tue. 1/20/25 5-8 pm @ Welch-Ryce-Haider, 15 E. Sola St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Service: Wed. 1/21/25 10 am @ Our Lady of Sorrows, 21 E. Sola St., Santa Barbara,CA 93101
Burial: Wed. 1/21/25 following the Service @ Calvary Cemetery, 199 N. Hope Ave.,
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
