‘She gave everything she had’: Pat Lopez, who led Lincoln through COVID, dies after illness
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Former Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Director Pat Lopez died Sunday after a fight with a brief illness, city officials say.
Lopez joined the health department in 1975 as a public health nurse, spending the next 29 years at the department.
She developed health care programs for Medicaid recipients, coordinated health stations in underserved areas, and led a team of public health nurses before retiring in 2004.
She then served as president of the Public Health Association of Nebraska, helping local health departments achieve national accreditation.
In 2019, Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird appointed her the interim director of the health department.
The temporary role soon became permanent as she guided Lincoln through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Officials said Lancaster County had some of the lowest mortality rates and highest vaccination rates in the country during the pandemic.
SEE ALSO: Lincoln’s health department gets national award for COVID-19 response
Lopez retired once again from the health department in October.
Statement from Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird:
“I am heartbroken by the passing of my dear friend and trusted colleague, Pat Lopez. Pat was a steadfast protector of our community, a source of wisdom and strength in our most challenging moments, and a public health champion whose legacy will endure for generations.
Through the pandemic and beyond, Pat was my partner in guiding Lincoln through unprecedented times. Her steady hand, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our residents saved lives and strengthened our city. I will always remember the long hours we spent together, weighing impossible decisions, finding solutions, and supporting one another in the face of adversity.
Pat never sought the spotlight, yet her impact was profound. She gave everything she had to this community, not out of duty, but out of care.
I will miss her counsel, her leadership, and her friendship. My thoughts are with her beloved family, and with all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her. Lincoln is a healthier, safer, and stronger place because of Pat Lopez.”
Statement from Health Director Kerry Kernen:
“We’re very saddened to hear of former Director Pat Lopez’s passing. This is not only a great loss for Lincoln and Lancaster County, it is a great loss for Nebraska.
Pat’s passion for public health was evident throughout her 50-year career as was her commitment to this community. We were fortunate to have her at the helm of the Health Department, especially during the pandemic, and we will honor her memory as we continue doing the work she loved so much.”
