Rosendo Espinosa

Rosendo Espinosa, 96, of Santa Barbara, California, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, in Santa Barbara. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Known as “Chendo” to friends and family and “Ross” to others.

Rosendo was born in Huetamo, Michoacán, Mexico, to Ezekiel and Elena Espinosa, one of four children. At the age of 12, he was sent to boarding school in Mexico City, where he completed his education.

At 19, he immigrated to the United States, settling in Santa Barbara, where he met the love of his life, Julia Galindo, who worked at the movie theater. Julia said that Chendo must have seen the same movie ten times just to talk to her, even waiting outside so he could walk her home. They married in 1950 and went on to build a beautiful life together.

Rosendo and Julia raised five children: Martha Elena, Benjamin, Mark, Annamaria, and Leticia. With Julia’s support, he learned English and began building a life for his family. In his early years, he worked various jobs and on weekends and evenings, he worked as a cook at several well-known local establishments, including The Copper Coffee Pot, Uncle John’s Pancake House, Talk of the Town, and later The Miramar. Eventually he worked as a custodian for the SB School District, while continuing his evenings at The Miramar.

One of his proudest accomplishments was becoming a United States citizen in 1973. While working full-time and raising a young family, he attended night classes at SBCC to achieve this goal—never missing a beat.

Ross was a quiet, soft-spoken man whose family was his pride and joy and who he loved spending time with. He also enjoyed his Sunday afternoons at Ortega Park, playing cards. He had a green thumb and found great happiness in gardening and nature. Later in life, he treasured the time he spent with his 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Alfonso and Efrain, and his daughter, Martha. He is survived by his sister, Rosita; his beloved wife of 75 years, Julia; his children, Benjamin, Mark, Annamaria, and Leticia (Edward); as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on April 25, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at the Encina Royale Clubhouse, located at 250 Moreton Bay Lane, Goleta, California