David Samuel Espinosa, Sr, 87, of Burlington, KS, passed away Monday morning, December 6, 2021, at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS, due to complications of Covid-19.

David was born November 13, 1934, at Topeka, the son of Maximiano "Mike" and Alice N. (Fellingham) Espinosa. He grew up in Topeka and on January 16, 1952, he entered the United States Navy. He served as a Gunner's Mate during the Korean War and upon his Honorable Discharge he was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. He was also awarded the Korean Service Medal, the China Service Medal, and the United Nations Medal.

Following the war he moved back to Topeka and On December 4, 1955, he and Julia Ann Jones were married. They became the parents of three sons.

He had worked as a car inspector, engineer, and a welder. He was employed by the Sante Fe Railroad in Topeka, Brownsville, TX, Denver, Co, Grand Junction, CO, Cleburne, TX, and in Michigan. He was also a gunsmith, locksmith, and master welder.

He was a member of the V.F.W. in Topeka, American Legion Post #38, Burlington, the Patriot Guard, Burlington Lodge #66, A.F. & A.M., and the Scottish Rite in Fort Scott.

His wife, Julia, preceded him in death on April 5, 2005. He was also preceded by  his sons, David Espinosa, Jr. in 2014, and Donald Shayne Espinosa in August of this year, also due to Covid-19, also, siblings Isador John, Philip John, Ruth Morrell, and Irene Foster.

He leaves his son, Douglas Espinosa, Burlington; grandsons, David Espinosa, III and John Douglas Espinosa; 3 great-grandchildren, Katlyn, Ashton, and Ashley Espinosa; siblings, Ralf Espinosa, Mildred Lovera, and Edward Espinosa; a number of nieces and nephews; many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of David's life will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. Saturday, December 18, 2021, at the Burlington Library Meeting Room. Inurnment will take place in Gridley Cemetery.