Our loving father, grandfather and longtime friend, Johnnie Leonard Espinoza, 68, passed away January 14, 2023, at Utah Valley Hospital, while surrounded by his children.
Johnnie was born December 10, 1954, in Price, Utah to John O. and Emma Gonzales Espinoza. On August 22, 1981, he married the love of his life, Erlinda Deborah Aguayo at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Helper, Utah. Johnnie passed of a broken heart, just five days after her passing.
John was lifelong resident of Carbon County who was a proud member of the United Mine Workers of America, Hiawatha Local #6363. He was also a devout member of Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Johnnie loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with his wife, daughters, son and grandson, Ren. He was a talented craftsman who enjoyed leather and wood working, as well as working on various craft projects. Johnnie loved giving everyone a hard time, however, he was deeply honored when he could help his family or friends with anything. Johnnie will be sorely missed and his untimely departure will only heal with time. Rest in peace Dad, we know you’re with Mom.
Johnnie is survived by his son, Johnny Espinoza, Price; two daughters, Anita Espinoza, Salt Lake, Emailylee Espinoza, Roy; his grandson, Renley Espinoza, Price; extended family, Phyllis Wittet, Rita Niemi, Jean Gonzales, Selva Clarke and Rick Sanchez; and many other loved ones that had a special place in his heart.
Preceded in death by his parents, John and Emma Espinoza; sister, Eva Martinez; in-laws, Joe and Emily Aguayo; grandparents, Jose Fermin Gonzales, Eva Casias, Juan Espinoza and Isbella Gonzales; nephews, Mike Valdez and Joey John Sanchez; uncle and aunt, Filbert and Lupe Sanchez.
Funeral Mass, Tuesday, January 24, 2023, 10:00 a.m., Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church. Vigil service, Monday evening, 7:00 p.m., Mitchell Funeral Home where the family will receive friends Monday and Tuesday one hour prior to the service. Committal service, Cliffview Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Johnnie online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.