He was born November 16, 1944 in Denver, Colorado. Raymond attended St Joseph Catholic School before graduating from East High School in 1964. He served in the US Navy on the USS Yorktown during the Vietnam era, he then worked at CF&I Steel Mill before going to work for the Pueblo County Sheriff Department before leaving in 1983 when he left to continue his music career. He was an accomplished musician, played the bass and electric guitars and loved singing. He had an amazing voice!
He was quite the jokester and loved his animals especially his Red Pit Bull, "Banjo". He loved Spanish food especially jalapenos, enjoyed his coffee and Coke, and sweet treats from Taffy's. Ray had the nicest penmanship because he was left-handed. He enjoyed taking trips to Cripple Creek, playing the slots and Texas Hold 'Em, and taking fishing trips. He loved taking drives in classic cars particularly his 60's Mercury Comet.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents Octaviano Esquibel and Frances Montano; step-father Raymond "Papo" Hernandez; siblings James Hernandez, and Ruth Johnston; nephew Micheal Fisher; brothers-in-law Johnnie T. Basta, Norman Fisher, and Bill Hodges.
He is survived by his children Becky (Patrick) Liverman, Raymond (Marlette) Esquibel, Priscilla (Chris) Sanchez; 6 grandchildren Abby, Lexi, Vanna, Mason, Joseph, Hayden; 1 great grandchild Emily; siblings Marie Hodges, Irene Basta, Rick Hernandez, John Hernandez, JJ Hernandez, Rose Hernandez and numerous nieces, nephews and other family and friends.
Visitation 3-7 pm Tuesday August 30, 2022, rosary 9:15 am Wednesday August 31, 2022 followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 both at St Joseph Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Imperial Memorial Gardens.
