8/29/37 – 1/7/21
Fred passed from this world on January 7, 2021. He was 83 years old. Dad was born on 8/29/37 in San Jose to Fred Esparza, Sr. and Antoinette (Lillo) Gates. He was the oldest of 5 siblings and grew up modestly, working on different ranches in the Campbell area, picking prunes and apricots with his family. He graduated from Campbell High School where he was Captain of the Varsity football team, and he never lost his passion for the game. It was during his high school years that he formed close friendships which would last his entire life. He went on to play football for both Santa Rosa Junior College and San Jose City College, where he ultimately earned his teaching credentials. During his college years he took a break and travelled with a buddy for several months by Vespa scooter throughout Europe. After returning, he joined the Army Reserves, where he was stationed (with his best friend) at Ford Ord in Monterey. He loved the fact that he was an Army Cook, where he learned to make the best macaroni salad ever.
In 1962 he joined the San Jose Police Department. Dad took great pride in being a police officer, and wore his uniform and badge with honor. During his years with SJPD he was a member of the H Car Unit, Metro Unit and Street Crimes Unit, among others. He was well respected and liked by everyone on the force, and his friendships with his former partners lasted until the day he died. Fred retired from the police department in 1994 after serving the San Jose community for 33 years. Upon his retirement he had numerous letters of accommodation, and not one citizen complaint.
Dad married Joyce (Miles) in 1966 and together they had 2 daughters, Stephanie (Charlie) and Sandra. After Joyce’s passing, he assumed the role of both mom and dad to his two young daughters, and he loved that he always received cards and flowers on Mother’s Day. Spending time with family was everything to dad, and we were “his girls.” Whether we were having a backyard BBQ or just watching football on TV, it was all good as long as we were together.
Nothing made dad happier then when he was with his grandchildren, Kyle, Catie Marie, Jake and Matthew. He adored them and they adored their Papa. He was so proud of all of them.
Dad loved spending time at his home in Pine Mountain Lake, especially on the deck among the trees. Dad was an avid golfer and gardener, and loved going to car shows in his 1955 Chevy Truck. It was the hot rod he never had in high school. He was a member of the San Jose Elks, the SIRS #54, and the SJ Strokers Golf Club. Dad was happiest when he was at a social gathering and everyone loved Fred. He will be remembered for his love, generosity, and friendship, as well as his hugs and shenanigans. He passing will be felt deeply by all who knew him, and will be so very very missed.
Due to current COVID restrictions the memorial service will be private. However,
a graveside service will be held at the Santa Clara Mission Cemetery in Santa Clara, CA, at 2:00 pm on Monday. February 1st. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
For anyone who may wish to honor dad’s memory, donations can be made in his name to the San Jose Police Officer’s Association Chaplaincy Program (sjpdchaplaincy.org) or the Salvation Army.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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