John Leonard Esparza, age 80, of Stillwater, Oklahoma passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024 in Stillwater. A memorial service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 26, 2024 at the Strode Funeral Home Chapel. Strode Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of the arrangements.

John was born to Cruz and Celestine (Dearborne) Esparza on October 09, 1943 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He was a C.E. Donhart graduate, which is known today as Stillwater High School. John married his former wife, Nora Bowman on February 14, 1967 in Stillwater and ended their divorce in 1982. On May 27, 1983, John and Tamra Catlett were married in Miami, Oklahoma.

John was a proud veteran and served in the US Navy. He was awarded several medals, including a Vietnam Service medal, National Defense Service medal, and a Good Conduct medal. John had many careers in his lifetime, but was most notably a printer for Moore Business Forms until he retired. John enjoyed spending his time bowling, golfing, and playing softball. He also enjoyed coaching his children and grandchildren in all sports.

John is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, two sisters, and his daughter Lori Munger.

He is survived by his wife Tamra Esparza; his sons William Esparza and wife Kimberly, Cruz Esparza and wife Kayleigh; his daughters Toni Quigley, Anita Barrett and husband Dustin, Amanda Norris and husband Adam, and Stephanie Esparza; 15 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a brother; and six sisters; and several nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.

An online obituary may be viewed, and condolences left for the family, at www.StrodeFH.com.