George Espinola, 88, of Hughson passed away peacefully in his sleep at Country Manor Samaritan Village in Hughson. George lived in Hughson all of his life. He joined the Army and served as a Field Lineman in the 84th Infantry Division and the 335th Infantry Regiment in WWII. He was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. He was also in the Battle of the Bulge, the Rhineland Campaign and was instrumental in releasing POWs held in the concentration camps.  Upon returning home from the Army, he stayed in Hughson where he farmed with his father for a few years. He met the love of his life, Mary C. Rocha, and married in 1949. They had one son. George drove truck for Berry’s Feed and Seed and retired from there after 35 years of service.

George  is survived by his son, George (Annemarie) of Hughson; three grandchildren, Shelliann (Chad) Langley of Hughson, Amy M. (Joe)Dickens of Modesto and Jason (Melissa) Espinola of Hughson; and nine great grandchildren, Kyle, Karley, Jessica, Katie, Kelsey, Jason, Matthew and Kenadee.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary C. Espinola; and his sister, Alice Espinola.

The family is grateful for the kindness and exceptional care provided by the staff at County Manor. Their care made all the difference in the quality of George’s life through the many stages of Alzheimer’s. 

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to VFW or Salvation Army.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec.  14 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Hughson. Interment will follow at Turlock Memorial Park.

Allen Mortuary is in charge of arrangements; please share your memories at www.allenmortuary.com.