Obituary of Francisco G. Esparza Sr.

Francisco G. Esparza Sr. 84, of Blue Island, passed from this life April 13, 2020. Francisco was the beloved husband of the late Esperanza R. nee Reyes, who passed away January 12, 2018. He is the loving father of Clemente (Salome) Esparza, Francisco (Jodean) Esparza Jr., Vidal Esparza, Gustavo (Christine) Esparza, Sandra Esparza and Claudia (Scott) Levins. Francisco is the cherished grandfather of Michael Esparza, Tammy Wondaal, Marcy Esparza, Angela Esparza, Bradley Esparza, Clemente Esparza Jr., Nina Esparza, Chad Esparza, Trevor Levins, Justin Levins, Colin Levins and Sebastian Esparza. He is the proud great grandfather of nine and the cherished godfather of many. Francisco is the dear brother of the late Juan Esparza , Valente Esparza , the late Benjamin Esparza , Maria Esparza , the late Maria Guadalupe Esparza , Maria Ascension Esparza , Alcadio Esparza , Graciela Esparza and Manuel Esparza . He leaves many other family members and friends to cherish his memory. Francisco was born May 11, 1935 in Zacatecas, Mexico to the late Maria Felix (Gallegos) Esparza and Arcadio Esparza. He came to the United States in the 1950's to begin a better life for his family. Francisco began working for Grief Brothers of Blue Island and continued his dedication to the company for thirty-five years until his retirement. He brought his family to the United States in the 1960's. Francisco was an incredible "people person". Often times striking up conversations with strangers, who soon became friends ! He was extremely civic orientated and was more than happy to share his knowledge. Francisco helped countless people navigate through the struggles of life. He enjoyed nothing more than being with his family, his devotion was remarkable. In the summer months, he could often be found in his garden, tending to the grape vines and numerous vegetables. Francisco was a lover of animals, especially his three feline fur babies, Bubba, Simon and Sylvester, who found comfort upon his lap as he rested in his recliner. In later years, Francisco became a fan of both the Cubs and the White Sox, enjoying whichever team was playing. Cremation services will be held privately. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, October 2, 2020 at St. Benedict Church, 2339 York St. in Blue Island, IL.