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Henry Vernon Espinosa, 78, passed to God, Tuesday, March 11, 2008, at his home in Albuquerque, after a lengthy illness. He is survived by brother, Reuben Espinosa, of Glendale, CA; sister, Eve Espinosa Buchanan, of Colorado Springs, CO; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Romolo and Ignacita Espinosa; and brother, Del Espinosa. Born November 18, 1929, in Blanco, NM, he grew up in Allison, CO, and was a graduate of Durango High School. He enlisted in the US Navy, and served 20 years aboard numerous submarines, including the USS Tecumseh, a nuclear-powered Polaris class boat. On May 16, 1968, he retired from active duty, with the rank of Chief Petty Officer. After retirement, he remained a staunch advocate of those who serve the US Military, and an active supporter of the Submarine Veterans Organizations. From 1970 to 1986, he was a member of the Professional Bowlers Association Tour and achieved notable success during his career. However, he counted his time as a Junior Bowling League coach as chief, among his bowling accomplishments. After retiring from PBA, he took up golf and was active as a player, participating in senior golf tournaments for many years. From 1969 to 1989, he worked as a Building Systems Mechanic, at the University of New Mexico. After retirement, he remained a lifelong supporter of all things Lobos, with the Women's Golf Team, holding a special place in his heart. His charitable contributions were generous, though mostly anonymous. Through Children International, he was a sponsor of a child in the Dominican Republic, providing funds for care and education. He was a steadfast friend, brother, and uncle- a thoroughly decent man. He will be greatly missed by all his friends and family. The Rosary will be recited Friday, March 14, 2008 at 7:00 p.m., in the Carlisle Chapel of Daniels Family Funeral Services, 3113 Carlisle Blvd NE. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 10:30 a.m., in the Sangre de Cristo Catholic Church, 8901 Candelaria Rd NE; with Interment following at Fairview Memorial Park, 700 Yale Blvd SE. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the US Submarine Veterans Charitable Foundation, addressed to USSVI Charitable Foundation, PO BOX 3870, Silverdale, WA, 98383. Funeral Services are entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 3113 Carlisle Blvd NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 (505)884-1188 www.danielsfuneral.com
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