Rodolfo Esparza passed away peacefully on July 7, 2023, at the age of 97, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in January 1926 in Los Corrales, Durango, Mexico.

Rodolfo moved to California in the 1950s and settled in beautiful Santa Barbara in the 1960s. He worked in construction until his retirement. He enjoyed going to the casino, watching boxing, baseball, horse racing, rodeos, westerns, classic Mexican movies, Caso Cerrado, and El Huarache Oaxaqueno. He also enjoyed listening to music.

He watched many, many YouTube videos from all categories to the point where he said, “I have seen them all.”

His love for chocolate and sweets was well known. He was excellent at math, remembered everything (especially birthdays), and had an enthusiastic sense of humor. He was a fascinating conversationalist and historian.

Rodolfo was the most noble, honest, sincere and positive person one could ever meet. He had a generous heart and was always willing to help those who asked.   

Rodolfo led a seemingly simple life, but with his humbleness and empathy he made an impact in many people’s lives in his 97 years on earth. He knew he was blessed to have lived such a long life and he was grateful for each new day. He will be missed greatly by his family and by all who knew him. He truly was a great man!

Rodolfo is survived by his children Rodolfo (Alicia), Enrique, Yolanda (Luis), Jose Ubaldo, and Magdalena (Jorge); grandchildren Rodolfo, Ricardo (Natalie), Jackie, Michael, Estella, Erica, Luis, and Marcos (Marit); three great grandchildren; and his sister Amelia Melero Esparza.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Raquel Esparza, nine of his siblings, and his grandson Edgar.

The family is grateful to Noemi Hernandez for the wonderful care she gave Don Rodolfo and Dr. Douglas Cummings and staff for his years of care and guidance.

Services for Rodolfo Esparza will be held at Holy Cross Church, 1740 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara. Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 20. Mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday, July 21, followed by graveside service at Calvary Cemetery, 199 N. Hope Ave., Santa Barbara.