Nick Meneses Espinoza

With a spirit as resilient as his heart, Nick Espinoza, a beloved member of Chinatown's vibrant community, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 95.

Nick's journey began on February 8, 1929, at the Queen of Angels hospital, where he was born to Encarnacion and Clara Espinoza. Growing up alongside his four siblings – Tivi, Albert, Josie, and his younger brother Raul – Nick embraced life with a sense of adventure that would define him for decades to come. From his early days in Chinatown to his later years in Lincoln Heights, Nick's boundless energy and curiosity led him to explore every corner of his world.

In his youth, Nick could often be found selling newspapers on street corners or lending a hand at the family restaurant, instilling in him a strong work ethic that would shape his entire life. Yet amidst his responsibilities, Nick always found time for play, whether it was playing baseball with friends, climbing trees, or indulging his passion for boxing alongside his brother Raul. The two shared a love for the sport that took them to the amateur boxing circuit and the hallowed halls of the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles.

For 35 years, Nick dedicated himself to his craft as an upholsterer, rising to the role of Foreman with unwavering dedication. His commitment to excellence extended beyond the workplace, as he and his brother Tivi spent countless Saturdays tinkering with cars, turning their shared hobby into cherished memories.

In 1957, Nick's life took a new turn when he met the love of his life, Mary Martinez, at a dance. Their connection was instant, and on June 27, 1959, they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that would span over five decades. Together, they welcomed four children – Nicholas, Mark, Deborah, and Donna – and opened their hearts and home to Ofelia and her daughter Cynthia, who became cherished members of the family. They were blessed with a daughter in-law, Kathy, 3 son in-laws - Tom, Eddie and Julio, 7 grandchildren - Derek, Nicole, Brittany, Dyan, Brooke, Anthony and Michael.

Nick and Mary's love knew no bounds, weathering the storms of life with grace and resilience. Even as Mary battled cancer, Nick remained her devoted caregiver, their bond unbreakable until her passing in February 2010. Yet from that moment of loss emerged a new chapter in Nick's life, marked by the joy of expanding family ties and embracing new adventures.

In the twilight years of his life, Nick found solace and joy in the company of his ever-growing family, welcoming with open arms 4 great grandson in-laws, Pablo, Duran, JT and Michael, a great daughter in-law, Antennette and 8 great grandchildren - Abigail, Emily, Adam, Harper, Jade, Zachary, Juliet and Jonathan. His home became a haven of love and laughter, a testament to the strong foundation he and Mary had built together.

Throughout his life, Nick embodied the values of hard work, resilience, and kindness. His simple yet profound wisdom – shared through his mantra of keeping busy, staying positive, and embracing each moment with patience and gratitude – touched the lives of all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to Nick Espinoza, we celebrate a life well-lived, a legacy of love and laughter that will continue to inspire us for generations to come. May his spirit live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.