Gary Michael Espinoza, age 68, a native and lifelong resident of Madera, passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2019 at Fresno Community Regional Medical Center. Gary was the son of Michael Espinoza and Josephine Zapien Espinoza. Gary attended local schools and graduated from Madera High School with the Class of 1970. He later went on to serve in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. For the last 20 years he was employed at the Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp near Yosemite National Park. In the community of Madera he was an active member of St. Joachim’s Catholic Church participating in the Knights of Columbus Council of the parish, he was a leader in the Catholic Family Life Group, and a leader in the St. Joachim’s Prayer group for 25 years. He was also named an honorary member of the Knights of the Shields.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents Michael and Josephine Espinoza. He is survived by his wife of 46 years Veronica Martinez Espinoza. He is the father of Jonathan Espinoza and James Espinoza both of Madera and Teresa Espinoza of Fresno. He is the brother of Dennis Espinoza of Madera, Mary Vasquez of Poway, Ca and Iris Innes of Fresno. He is the grand father of Angelina Espinoza, Jenna Espinoza and a grandchild soon to be born.
Visitation will be on Monday, May 6, 2019 from 5 to 8 PM at Jay Chapel. A rosary will be recited on Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at 10 AM at St. Joachim Catholic Church, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 AM.
Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery of Madera.