Augustin Lopez, retired administrator

Augustin “Augie” Lopez, a retired correctional administrator, passed away March 11, 2025, at 83 years old. His career spanned over 30 years.

He began his career with the department as a correctional officer at California Rehabilitation Center at Norco in 1969. In 1976, Lopez transferred to California Correctional Institution at Tehachapi, working as a correctional program supervisor II.

Later the same year, he transferred to Correctional Training Facility at Soledad as a correctional counselor. Three years later, he transferred back to Norco.

In 1980 he transferred to San Quentin. A year later, he promoted to correctional lieutenant. Then, in 1986, Lopez promoted to correctional counselor II supervisor. A year later, he transferred to California Institution for Women. Then, later the same year, he transferred to Richard J. Donavon Correctional Facility. He promoted to captain at California Correctional Center in 1988.

He transferred to his final institution in 1990 at Pelican Bay State Prison in Crescent City. In 1995, he promoted to correctional administrator. After career spanning more than 30 years, Lopez retired from Pelican Bay State Prison in 2000.

Augustin Lopez enjoyed life in retirement

During his retirement years, he enjoyed spending each day with Susie, his wife of 43 years. According to his family, he tried to have the best lawn and garden on the block and was always working on projects around the home. He cherished his time with his family, especially his grandchildren, Nathan and Alyssa. His favorite thing to do was talk about his time in corrections, telling “stories” to anyone who would listen.

“Augie worked at several institutions throughout the state, gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience in corrections. He will be remembered for being a leader, mentor, role model, and dressing in the nicest suits and spit-shined shoes. He will also be remembered for finding every potluck in the prison, as he enjoyed breaking bread with staff,” said his stepson, Stephen Smith, who is also the warden at Pelican Bay State Prison.

Services have not yet been scheduled.

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

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