Community mourns fallen officer after battle with cancer

KANE COUNTY — Communities across Kane County are in mourning after the loss of Kane County Forest Preserve and Maple Park Police Officer Edgardo “Ed” Lopez, 55, who passed away on June 26 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Lopez was a 26-year veteran of the Hanover Park Police Department before retiring from that position. He continued his law enforcement career for the Village of Maple Park in 2023 all while working for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County Police Department since 2009. Lopez was known not only for his dedication to public service but also for his unwavering kindness and commitment to the community.

According to a GoFundMe campaign created for Lopez, he was diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma, a rare cancer of the liver bile ducts, on March 7 after having experienced symptomatic pains and illness. Unfortunately, by the time the cancer was discovered, it had already metastasized to other parts of his body and was classified as stage IV.

Lopez’s colleagues remember him as a steadfast and compassionate officer, always going above and beyond the call of duty.

“Ed had used his knowledge and certifications to train patrol officers and other department members in firearms instruction, active shooter, and rapid deployment. As a team leader of Hanover Park’s Crisis Resolution Team (CRT/SWAT) he became the lead instructor and trainer in SWAT tactics, search warrant planning, and execution,” stated members of the Kane County Forest Preserve District Police. “As a member of the Illinois Tactical Officers Association, Ed was a certified Tactical Patrol Officer (TPO) and MACTAC instructor.”

Born and raised in Chicago, Lopez began his law enforcement career after serving in the U.S. Army.

Kane County residents have been deeply moved by Lopez’s passing, leaving not only donations to his GoFundMe campaign to help his surviving family members, but also posting memories to his obituary page.

“Ed was one of the toughest guys I ever met, but he appreciated some of the simplest things, things like a good cupcake,” said Terrence Sherill, a former colleague who worked alongside Lopez.

Lopez is survived by his wife, Pamela, their daughter, Christina, and his two stepchildren, Joseph and Jenine Bluett. The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time.

As of July 1, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over $16,000 of its initial $20,000 goal.

As Kane County grieves the loss of a beloved officer, the legacy of Lopez will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the community he so dearly loved.