Rodolfo “Rudy” Trevino Lopez, 77, slipped into the arms of Jesus, on September 29th, 2025. He was born on June 24th, 1948, in West Bend, WI, the son of Ernest and Luz Lopez.
Rodolfo is survived by his wife of 31 years, Claudia Ileana; his three children: Matthew R. Lopez, Michael R. Lopez, Rosemary S. Lopez; grandson, Dons (Autumn) Lopez; brother, Ramiro (Diane) Lopez; nephew, Rene Lopez of San Antonio, TX; sister, Graciela (Bill) Hendricks; nephew, Jason Hendricks of Colorado Springs, CO; four stepchildren: Claudia I. Becerra of Colorado Springs CO and Cindy J.(Dave) Hasling of Kalamazoo, MI. Also, Robert G. Becerra and Naomi A. Norton preceded him in death.
To his friends and family, he was known as “Rudy.”
Rudy was committed to his belief in the American ideal and trusted in the teachings of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He never wavered in the matters of honor, duty, and commitment, remaining steadfast in the face of adversity. His life is a witness to his beliefs and values.
Rudy volunteered for service and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving within the Republic of South Vietnam between 1968-1969; he was assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).
Rudy was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds sustained at the Khe Shan, Vietnam, during Operation Pegasus. Later, he survived a helicopter crash unscathed, while aboard a UH-67 targeted by the North Vietnamese. While serving in Vietnam, he was exposed to Agent Orange.
His military awards and medals include the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device, Vietnam Service Medal w/5 Bronze Service Stars, National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Cold War Medal.
Following his discharge from the military, Rudy joined the Colorado Springs Police Department. He was issued the badge number 225, in 1971. He was assigned in 1973-1974 to the Colorado Southern Drug Control Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG III). He participated in covert operations with twenty-five counties. He was the arresting officer in the Supreme Court of the United States, landmark decision No. 79-1901 that established future legal precedent in regard to the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution
He received several written commendations from the Chief of Police, City Mayor, the State Governor (those that were serving at the time), and numerous letters of appreciation from members of the public.
Rudy received the Life Saving Award for his display of bravery and valor. During an incident which took place on 7 August 1988, as a peace officer he rescued a private citizen, who was unconscious, exposed to toxic gas while in their home, risking both life and limb.
He retired from CSPD in 1999, after 27 years of service. Rudy went on to work at Manitou Springs PD, Pikes Peak Community College PD, and Colorado Springs School District 11. Then he really settled down and retired, enjoyed trimming his hedge, gardening and of course pulling weeds.
Military funeral honors will be rendered at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Pikes Peak National Cemetery, 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Tunnel to Towers, or any organization that supports Vets. Thank you.