In Loving Memory of Thomas Paul LOPEZ, DVM, Wellsville, NY

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thomas Paul Lopez, 73, of Wellsville, NY, who left us unexpectedly on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Born April 29, 1952, in Westport, Tom was the sixth of fourteen children born to Robert Lopez, DVM and Marjorie Beha Lopez. He was predeceased by his parents; a brother, James Lopez; and two sisters, Kristine Lopez and Jan Lopez Fellows. Surviving are: ten siblings, Maureen Fernandez, Steven Lopez, Martha Lopez Chubb, Daniel Lopez, Tresa Lopez, Susan Lopez Allott, Tony Lopes, Lori Lopez Myers, Matt Lopez, and Kate Lopez; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. He is also survived by his cherished dog, Miha.

Tom’s journey in life was marked by a deep love for animals. After attending Westport Elementary and graduating from Lake Placid High School, he pursued veterinary medicine at Cornell University, followed by Tuskegee University in Alabama, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

Tom found his “animal home” at the Wellsville Veterinary Hospital in 1994 and has since been providing extraordinary care for pets in his community. His office staff were as professional and dedicated as he was and were often referred to as family. He chose the following inscription for his gravestone, “His legacy lives on in the hearts of his animal friends.” Tom’s friends and family will always recall his trademark gesture of a small dog nestled in the crook of his arm.

Tom’s brother-in-law commented, “Tom had such a big heart that he tried to hide! What he went through to become a veterinarian and have a successful practice. He was a caring son to Marge and Bob as well as brother and uncle to his siblings, nieces and nephews.” He will be remembered as gentle, funny, and kind, a man whose legacy lives on in every animal and person he touched.

Friends are invited to a gathering to celebrate Tom’s life at Wellsville Moose Lodge #601, 242 Maple Ave., Wellsville, NY on Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 4:00 – 10:00 PM. The family will be having a private burial in his hometown, Westport, NY. Condolences may be sent to Wellsville Veterinary Hospital, 2437 NY-19, Wellsville, NY 14895. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Tom’s memory by donating to animals in need, continuing his legacy of compassion and care. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.