Michael James Esparza Obituary (2025)

Michael James Esparza, 41, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, after a lengthy battle with illness. He was born on September 3, 1984, in Yakima, Washington, to Joseph and Ann Katherine (Denning) Esparza. Michael graduated from Davis High School in 2003 and went on to study film, screenwriting, and theater production at both The Art Institute of Seattle and Central Washington University. His lifelong love for storytelling and the arts led him to San Francisco, where he spent much of his adult life pursuing creative work and meaningful friendships. Michael inherited his mother's love of books, reading, and creative writing, and his father's keen eye for art. He had a deep passion for film and theater and a remarkable gift for entertaining others. Michael loved cooking for family and friends, often welcoming those in need of warmth and care into his home. His humor, kindness, and zest for life left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He is survived by his father, Joseph Esparza; siblings Cristina (Mike) Thomas, Joe (Michelle) Jensen, Eric (Tara) Esparza, and Nathan (Emily) Esparza; grandmother Dorothy Denning; aunts Tony Valenzuela and Dora Carlquist; uncles James (Colleen) Denning, Brian (Amy) Denning, and Edward (Melisa Vadez) Esparza; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Ann Katherine Esparza; grandfathers Harlan Denning and Ray Esparza; grandmother Consuelo Esparza; and uncles Ramon, Richard, and Nicolas Esparza. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him--especially his cousin Laura Denning, who grew up with him as the brother she never had, and his one and only sister Cristina. "What moves through us is a silence, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch. We may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say goodbye. But little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived--and that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget." -- BJ Karrer The Esparza family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, Washington, for their exceptional care and unwavering support during Michael's final days. Your kindness brought great comfort and peace to our family. A Memorial Service celebrating Michael's life will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Family Fellowship, 603 S. 13th Avenue, Yakima, Washington. A potluck reception will follow at the same location. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family.