Over fifty years ago a dynamic optimist and enterprising young man founded, almost at the same time a factory, home and baseball team.
His name was Mario Lopez sr. He had three dreams: to establish a business, a family, and to organize a baseball team. He loved work, children and baseball team. When he established his small chorizo factory, ‘Carmelita’ he selected young people like himself, people with dreams and commitment to their community. Mario's Baseball team went on to win 19 city championships.
With his wife Julieta at his side they raised a family of 5 children.
Mario Lopez sr. passed away on October 3 1966. but his accomplishments did not die with him. His factory, children, grandchildren and baseball team have kept his legacy alive. Today his enterprise operates under the management of his three sons ‘Carmelita Chorizo Company’
The heir of name and character, Mario Lopez jr., has taken an active participation in the business since 1957 after 3 years of military service.
Carlos joined the company in 1958 just after graduating from Garfield high school. Frank, the youngest of Lopez clan, joined the company in 1968 after serving in the Vietnam war with the united states marine corp.
Carmelita chorizo today sponsors several teams of boys and girls in baseball soccer, basketball and golf and is also proud sponsor of the Marjachi heritage society.