Phillip Larry Espinoza

Amazing, loving husband, father, and grandfather, Phillip Larry Espinoza, 87, of Delta, went to be with our Lord and Savior and his beautiful wife Anna on June 19, 2024. His family was by his side when he left for the gates of heaven. 

Born in Ortiz, Colorado, on April 4, 1937, to Salvador and Cordilia Espinoza, Phil was one of seven children. He spent his childhood in the San Luis Valley and the Montrose area. 

From a young age, Phil was a hard worker. He worked in the farming fields to help support his family. At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Navy where he was stationed in Japan, Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. Upon his return, he worked at the Union Carbide Uravan Mill. He then went on to work at the Blue Mesa Reservoir project, and later became a foreman at Morrow Point Dam. He ended his career as a meat department manager for City Market, where he retired after 33 years. 

Phil married the love of his life Anna (Sanchez). Being married 65 years on earth, they built a beautiful family legacy and were a true example of love. They raised in love their five children and had fun spoiling their grandchildren. Together, they created many memories with their Espinoza and Sanchez families. Nothing was more cherished by Phil than his family. He had a deep love and protection not only for his wife and kids, but for all his relatives- near and far. 

Along with his family, Phil loved his many friends & “honorable mentions” who always stayed dear to his heart. He made sure everyone felt welcome in his home, and he made everyone feel like they were special. 

Phil was one of a kind. A true man’s man. He enjoyed hunting, boating, fishing, camping, four-wheeling, and taking family vacations. He always stayed busy and was never one to sit around. He took pride in all he did, no matter the task. He enjoyed going to and/or hosting family reunions and gatherings, but nothing made his eyes light up more than seeing his grandchildren- they were his pride and joy. 

Phil was a joker, and loved making people laugh. Those who know him know how onery he could be. He also had a stern side; he believed in discipline and made sure to instill good morals and values in his children and grandchildren. He believed in and showed what love and forgiveness truly meant. Phil was very strong in his Christian faith. He prayed over his family every day. 

Phil was reunited in heaven with his sweetheart, Anna, his parents Salvador and Cordilia, and sister Eva. In that heavenly reunion were also treasured in-laws, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, uncles, grandparents, and friends. 

He is survived by his children, Phil/Eddie (Cora), Larry, Gary (Lisa), Audrey (Leroy), and Tim (Michelle). His grandchildren: Keko (Joleen), Jennifer (Matt), Ericka (Angel), Gianna, Bryan (Alyssah), Tarae (Brock), Tia, Sarah, Marki, Tyler (Jen), Brandon (Yoko), Easton (Brooke), 13 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren; his only brother, David (Esther) and 4 sisters Corrine, Ruth (Bill), Lois (John), Martha (Bill); his Sanchez family and numerous friends, cousins, nephews and nieces.

Services will be held at the True-Life Church (Cedaredge Assembly of God) on June 29th at 10:00 am. Burial with Military Honors to follow at Delta Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, Phil’s favorite charity.