Mike Lopez, charismatic Chicago firefighter and artist, dies at 49

Chicago firefighter Mike Lopez was able to “turn every situation into a laugh riot,” a friend said. (Provided)

The say-anything manner of Chicago firefighter Mike Lopez left people bobbing in the wake of his personality as he made his mark at various spots around the city.

There was the red bench outside his Bronzeville firehouse where he cut it up with colleagues and passersby. And Section 429, Row 10, at Bears games and the lot where he tailgated. Huddles at St. Cajetan elementary school, where he coached football.