Américo López Droz

Américo López Droz, age 80, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025. He will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the gentle spirit he shared so freely with everyone around him. His caretakers often described him as sweet and friendly—a true reflection of the positive impact he had on all who knew him.

Born on September 28, 1945, in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico, Américo was the beloved son of the late Rafael López García and Rosa Droz Maldonado. He dutifully served his country as a member of the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, proudly representing his nation during the Vietnam Era. His bravery and dedication were recognized through numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Purple Heart, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, and the Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar. His service exemplified courage, commitment, and a deep sense of honor that remained with him throughout his life.

Américo is survived by his three daughters, Linda (Liza) Arocho and her husband Deufratemaro, Arlene López, and Carmen Rodriguez and her husband Rafael; nine grandchildren, Kaysha L. Arocho and her husband José Cotto, Kiara Liz Arocho, Joshua Xavier Arocho, Kylie Jailene Rivera, Sofía Liz Rivera, Juan Ramón Rivera, Elijah Daveed Rivera, Brenda Rodriguez, and Alex Rodriguez; four great-grandchildren, Roxas Aros Arocho, Josiah Immanuel Rivera, Alexa Angel, and Amaya Rodriguez; and four brothers, Merquiades López Droz, Rafael López Droz, Norberto López Droz, and Miguel A. López Droz.

Beyond his military service, Américo was a man of many passions and talents. He found great joy in woodworking, often crafting heartfelt pieces to share with loved ones. His love of nature was evident in his devotion to cultivating flowers, reflecting his appreciation for the beauty and peace found in the world around him. Deeply rooted in faith, Américo held a sincere love for the Word of God and for studying the Bible. In the final chapter of his life, his proudest moment came when he reconnected with his Heavenly Father, rededicating his life to the Lord.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home in East Orlando, Florida, on October 29, 2025. The visitation will take place from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, followed by a funeral service from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Family, friends, and all whose lives Américo touched are warmly invited to join in celebrating his life and legacy.

As we reflect on Américo’s journey, we find comfort in the loving memories he leaves behind and in the lasting imprint of his kindness, faith, and gentle spirit on all who had the privilege to know him.

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