Jose W H Espinoza

JOSE W H ESPINOZA

March 24, 1940 – December 12, 2023

Joe Espinoza, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away at home Tuesday, December 12^th. He was 83 years old.

Joe was born at his family home in Pinones, Colorado on March 24, 1940 to Jose Ponciano Espinoza and Feliciana Archibeque. He spent his early years in farming country, near Cortez, Colorado. The large family included seven brothers and two sisters. Joe developed a strong work ethic at a young age. Joe and his siblings worked alongside their father in various farming related jobs. In 1950, the family settled in Utah. It was there that Joe developed his love for sports. Joe wrestled and played football and was particularly adept on the basketball court. Joe graduated from Davis High School in 1959.

After high school, Joe enlisted in the Air Force. He served honorably for 24 years of active duty, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant. His active duty career was followed by 17 years in the Civil Service. His combined 41 years of service were spent within the US Air Force logistics, most of them as the Traffic Management Officer (TMO).

Joe met his sweetheart and love of his life, Becky Joann O’Brien in Ogden, Utah in 1964, and they married in Little Rock, Arkansas on September 3, 1965 (she chased him there). On military assignments, Joe and Becky shared incredible life experiences and made dear friends around the world. During their 58 years of marriage, they lived life to the fullest in Japan, England, Spain, and numerous US cities (Aurora, Champaign, Montgomery and South Weber).

Joe loved to fish, golf, camp, research geneolgy and was always game to travel and explore new opportunities. At home, particularly in his later years, he loved to watch sports, with a passion for golf and the Denver Broncos. He also followed his sons’ favorite teams: Liverpool FC, Utah, Kentucky and NC State.

Joe was known for his work ethic, integrity, strength and resilience. His dedication to doing things “the right way” and love of his family is unmatched. He was the patriarch to a large family, who all adore and love him. They are grateful for his legacy.

The family would like to thank all the healthcare professionals and extended family and friends that have provided love and care throughout this difficult time. A special thank you to Bobby, Rosie and Carlos for your continuous love and attention to our family needs.

Joe is survived by his wife Becky; siblings, Mary (Brian), Danny, Mike (Rayna), Paul (Margaret) and Betty, sons, Duane (Gala), Mark, Dean (Tiffany) and Kevin (Jamie); grandchildren Brandon (Heather), Brooke (Raul), Ciara (Brandon), Deuce (Kasey), Amelia (James), Nickolas, Makelle, Jordan (Lisa), Linsey (Shannon), Brianna (Kyle), and Mateo; great grandchildren Justice, Raul Jr, Hendrix, Keaton, Marla, Ruby and Ella, and great great granddaughter Braylee. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Feliciana and brothers Pete, Ernest, Benny and Bill.

Graveside services will be delayed until the Spring and will be held at Washington Heights Cemetery.