Manuel Jesus Espinoza Medina

Manuel entered eternal rest at home in San Jose, California on April 12, 2022, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family. Manuel was born in Zacatecas, Mexico in 1943. His family settled in San Jose when he was as an adolescent.

Manuel married Elena de la Torre in 1967, they were married for 54 years and raised four children. He began service in the U.S. Army in 1967, serving as a helicopter mechanic. He was a retired warehouseman with Bergen Brunswig Drug Company.

The enjoyments in Manuel’s life included raising his family, motorcycle riding, creating glorious gardens and crafting projects for his family. He also enjoyed watching wrestling, boxing, Raiders football, and novelas with his Me Me. He loved frequent trips to the flea market, was the best companion to every family dog, and doted on his grandchildren in his later years where he was affectionately referred to as Papa.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Elena de la Torre Medina, children: Anna Medina Hawkes, Manuel Jr. (Barbara) Medina, Johnny (Eleanor) Medina, Angela (Victor Ramirez) Medina. Grandchildren: Jordan Medina, Keara Medina, Thomas Ayala, Sara Hawkes, Jesse Hawkes, Alexander Ramirez, Lilly Medina, Angel Ramirez, Eleanor (Ellie) Medina, Andres Ramirez. Siblings: Raul Medina, Arturo Cruz Jr., Raquel Garcia, Rafael Cruz, Rose Castaneda, and Jaime Cruz. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws. He is preceded in death by parents, Amelia and Arturo Cruz, granddaughter, Elizabeth Medina, and sister Cristina Espinoza Medina.

Loved ones are invited to attend a memorial service May 6, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel, 710 Willow Street, San Jose, CA 95125. Graveside interment to follow May 6, 2022, at 1:00 PM at Oak Hill Memorial Park, 300 Curtner Drive, San Jose, CA 95125.

Take it easy Papa, we love you.