Derick Watanabe Lopez (70), passed away unexpectedly on July 5, 2026. He was a 45-year resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado.
He was formerly a resident of Pearl City Hawaii, (Oahu) where he grew up and graduated from Damien High School in ‘74. Derick was then accepted into the United States Air Force Academy where he studied computer science and graduated in 1978.
He then studied at Stanford University, earning his master’s degree, followed by CSU Fort Collins, Colorado, where he earned his Doctorate, while pinning on Major in the US Air Force, then later teaching computer science at the Air Force Academy.
He was a computer scientist and specialized in cyber security for Northrop Grumman for 25 years.
Derick was born on May 1, 1956, to Francisco Lopez and Kazue (Watanabe) Lopez in Tokyo Japan.
On June 1, 1985, he married Joni Cox in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Dex was an avid photographer, self-taught classical guitarist, gun enthusiast, and fourth-degree black belt in taekwondo.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years; two sons, Taylor Lopez (Leah) and Jason Lopez; sister, Clair Kelly; and four grandchildren, Philip, Shiloh, Penelope, and Alexander.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, Francisco and Kazue Lopez; and sister, Teresa Hill.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in honor of Derick, may be made to San Luis Valley Animal Welfare Society (SLVAWS) 76 El Rio Dr. Alamosa, Colorado 81101.
Joni, I was sorry to see a USAFA email regarding Dex’s passing. I met you at our last class reunion. Dex & I were both in CS16. He was a good guy and it sounds like he had a very good life with you. You have my sympathy & prayers for your loss.
So sorry for your loss, Joni. I am glad we saw you at the last reunion we attended.
Ted and Ava Manolas
Joni, so sorry for your loss. I learned of this from Ken Krause and passed this on to start a chain notification to those who knew and loved him from the USAF Academy Computer Science Department
Larry and Chris Jones
Joni, I’m so sad for your loss. I was in CS16 with him, and my wife Becky and I enjoyed seeing you both at our 40th and 45th USAFA reunions. I was thinking of Dex earlier this month, and looking forward to our next class reunion. He was a good man. I’ve been thinking of you and your family these past few days, and keeping you in my prayers.
May God comfort you all.
– Bill Campbell
“The Lord is near to the broken-hearted.” (Psalm 34:18)
So sorry to hear this news! Dr Lopez was always kind and helpful to me and everyone I saw him interact with! God bless you all in this difficult time!
I am very sorry for your loss. Jack Anthony informed me of Derick’s passing. From his reputation, I know he touched many lives in a very positive way. We will keep you all in our prayers. Greg Hollister, Class of ’78.
Condolences to the Family. Om Shanti.
Joni:
Catherine and I were deeply saddened to learn of Derick’s passing. I’ll never forget how helpful he was to me when I started in DFCS. He was always willing to assist, and always with a smile on his face. God bless you and all your family.
Bill Hoferer