Ernesto Espinoza, to most known as "caballon", who was a beloved son/brother/husband/father/grandpa/great grandpa and friend passed away at the age of 79 years old on his favorite holiday Christmas Day, December 25th, 2012, surrounded by all of his loved ones. The epitome of a "family man," with the heart of a horse, was determined to have his family and friends use his passing as a day to remember and celebrate his life, and this is exactly what we will do in memory of this great man. Ernesto was born on February 26, 1933 in Canoga Park, CA to Jose and Teodora Perez Espinoza.
He was born and raised in the "Valley" and worked as a construction worker and carpenter for most of his life.
Ernesto married the love of his life and soul mate Sofia (Juarez) on April 11, 1953 in Los Angeles, CA. They were the true definition of unconditional love who were happily married for 59 wonderful years and still so much in love. In the years of their marriage they showed each other daily genuine love and affection. Ernesto serenaded his beautiful wife every morning with guitar in hand, sitting by the fireplace while she smiled lovingly back at him. This was just one of the many memories they shared and made throughout the years.
In his early years he was a dedicated member of the Guadalupe Youth Center and became friends with everyone he met. He built a beautiful loving family, and the nature man that he was loved using his hands for his passion of carpentry and gardening. He always instilled an "open door policy" welcoming anyone into his home. His grandkids will always remember him for his Rico Suave moves on the dance floor, his dashing good looks (always in a fedora hat) and his soulful emotion he would pour out on the guitar and harmonica. Most importantly he always made sure everyone around him had a great time!
He was preceded in death by Jose Espinoza, Teodora Perez Espinoza, Jenny, David, Manuel, Tomasita, Daniel, Mike and Enrique.
Ernesto is survived by his wife Sofia; 9 Children- Joe, David (Star), Peter, Frank (Jenny), Lucy, Linda (Vince), Anita (Armando), Ruby and Elizabeth; Brothers- Chilo, Benjamin (Betty), Jess (Barbara), Lucy "Chita", Amador (Lupe), Robert (Alvina), John (Pat); 19 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grand Children; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended relatives and not to forget his adoring dog (princess) Lilly.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 3, 2013, from 4:00pm until 8:00pm with a rosary starting at 7:00pm. The visitation and rosary will be held in the Chapel of the Hills, located at Eternal Valley Memorial Park Mortuary, 23287 N Sierra Highway, Newhall, CA 91321. The Funeral Mass will be held at, St. Joseph the Worker ,19855 Sherman Way, Winnetka, CA 91306 , on Friday, January 4, 2013, at 10:30am. Burial will follow at, Oakwood Memorial Park, 22601 Lassen St
Chatsworth, CA 91311.
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