William Espinoza

William Espinoza, 87, passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024, after a long and very courageous Alzheimer’s journey (over 15 years). He never lost his spark and quirky sense of humor throughout this season. He was selfless, sacrificial, stubborn, demanding, industrious, relentless, energetic, and fearless. His life underscored his passion and fervor with which he ministered. He was a survivor who grew up in poverty in a family of seven in Cochabamba, Bolivia. He came to America to work and provide a better life for his family. William always demonstrated gratitude, love, and appreciation to this great land of opportunity.

William had a peculiar, dry sense of humor. When you would ask him how he was doing he would often answer “Not as good as you.” He had quite the persona that had him speaking with the most violent of offenders to climbing 45-foot cedar trees. His relentless and quick-witted demeanor propelled him and often got him into mischief. He delighted in advocating for others especially his family that he even considered being a lawyer.

William loved and valued his children dearly that he prayed for them daily. He worked very hard and sacrificed a great deal for his family. William (and his wife) worked four jobs between them. As a recent immigrant he advocated for his older daughter to get double promoted, his only son to get promoted, argued in court on behalf of others, and so on. His personality and drive led him to pursue additional training and complete postgraduate studies at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago.

William spent most of his time at church-related activities. As a minister he had compassion for the lost. He loved God ever so dearly and served Him for over five decades. His commitment, hard work, and determination were clearly evidenced in his faithfulness to his calling. His impact touched countless lives in two continents for eternity. In his semi-retirement years Willilam (along with his wife Lilia) volunteered at three nursing home facilities in addition to “Chaplains for Christ.” We will miss him and we will always cherish the times we spent together.

Loving son of Carlos and Justina.

Beloved husband of his late wife Lilia C Espinoza.

Loving father of Ana M. Espinoza , Lily R. (George) Pappas, Elizabeth D. (Charles) Trevino, Late Benjamin C. (Rachel) Espinoza.

Proud grandfather of Xristian A. Espinoza, Dahrian C. (Diana) Espinoza, Jaaziah B. Espinoza, Caanan K. (Beto) Villegas, Eli J. Espinoza, Luke L. Espinoza, Malachi S.C. Espinoza, Anna Z. Pappas, Rebekah D. Pappas. Cherished great-grandfather of Caleb A. Vasquez, Galileia B. Villega, and Ines Hilaria Espinoza.

Visitation will be held on Sunday March 31,2024, from 4:00p.m. to 8:00p.m., At Sagrada Familia Funeral Home, 4950 West 79th Street Burbank IL 60459.

His interment will be private. 

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