Leon Espinoza Obituary

Leon was born in Trinidad, CO, to Marie D. Barron Espinoza and Leon Espinoza, Sr. He attended Trinidad High School and then proudly served more than 20 years in the U.S. Army. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, a sister and a step-son. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, P. Lynne Espinoza; two sons, David and Steven Espinoza; daughter, Leonette Espinoza; step-daughter, Vickie Jones; five grandchildren, Christin, Dakotah, Autumn, Sierra and Cheyenne. Leon was proud of his military service. Serving in both the Korean and Viet Nam wars, he earned and was awarded the Silver Star for Exemplary Combat Action; two Bronze Stars -one for Valor and one for Combat Action. Wounded in Viet Nam, he was awarded the Purple Heart. He also received the Korean Service Medal with one Silver Star and one Bronze Star, the Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Viet Nam Honor Badge and Viet Nam Service Medal with two Oak Leaves and Army Commendations with Oak Leaves, Good Conduct Medal and Expert Infantry Badge. In total he earned 23 medals and citations during his distinguished career. Leon also retired from the Post Office after many years of service. He was a life member and officer in the Military Order of the Purple Heart. He was a fiercely proud yet quietly humble man. He loved all the Colorado sports teams but the Broncos were his favorite. He loved to keep his gardens green and beautiful. He loved traveling and experiencing life with Lynne and the grandkids. He cherished the time given to him by family and friends. A remembrance will be held at the MOPH Chapter, 2 Carson Circle, Fountain, CO, on Saturday, August 31, from 1-3:30pm.