Daniel Espinoza

Daniel Espinoza age 49 of Juarez, Mexico, passed away on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 due to a lengthy illness. Daniel was born on July 29, 1973, to Rosa Espinoza, and Manuel Hernandez.

Daniel was preceded in death by his mother, Rosa Espinoza-Moeckel, and step father Dennis Moeckel. 

Daniel is survived by his father Manuel Hernandez of Juarez. Sons Daniel Espinoza of Albuquerque, and Estevan Espinoza (Sheila) of Espanola, and daughter Bria Rose Espinoza of Fairview. Grandson Beckham Daniel Espinoza of Espanola. Sisters Rose Espinoza of Gallup, and Araceli Hernandez of Juarez. Brothers  Manuel Hernandez, and Adrian Hernandez of Juarez. Friend and caregiver Laura Romero (Rosendo) of Fairview. 

Daniel came to the United States with his mother and grandmother at a young age. They established a life in Gallup, New Mexico where Daniel graduated from highschool. Daniel’s dream as a child was to become a police officer, so he worked hard towards his dream and attended UNM when he studied Criminal Justice. Daniel trained hard and completed his certification from the New Mexico Police Academy. Upon his certification Daniel was accepted to the Espanola Police Department where he served over 23 years of service. During this time Daniel served as a commanding officer. Daniel was passionate about his career and worked fearlessly in his profession. He often stated that he would take a bullet for any of his boys in blue whom he loved as brothers. 

Daniel was a family man who loved his children. He was an excellent cook who took pride in preparing wonderful meals for his friends and family. You can usually find Daniel watching football games, even reruns of his beloved Dallas Cowboys. Daniel enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson and meeting up with his fellow biker friends. He always customized every vehicle he owned, even his police cruisers. 

Daniel expressed his gratitude to those who cared for him during his illness, his wonderful daughter Bria took care of him daily. Esteven and Sheila took him to his appointments and ran errands for him. Daniel knew that he was loved by the actions those in his life took to help at the time he needed them the most. Daniel’s laugh and humor will live in our memories as we remember all the good times we have shared.  

Please join us for a viewing and wake service on Sunday, February 19, 2023 @ 6 pm, at Rivera Family Funeral Home, 417 East Rodeo Rd. Santa Fe, NM.

Mass and funeral service will be announced at the viewing. 

The family of Daniel Espinoza would like to thank everyone who has joined us during this time of sorrow and loss, many have shared their special memories. Let's keep Daniel's memory alive.