Damian Gilbert Esparza

The family requests that masks be worn for the viewing and service.The family of Damian Gilbert Esparza will celebrate his life of 69 years at 10:30 am on Monday, August 30, 2021, at the Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers. He passed on Thursday, August 26, 2021. We invite you to view the live-streamed service on this page, sign his virtual guestbook, and download his memorial keepsake folder to your device for printing.On October 3, 1951, Damian Gilbert was born to Damian and Dionicia Esparza in Lamesa, Texas. He married his first wife, Gloria Esquivel in 1969 with whom he had three children. He was a graduate of Lamesa High School and Texas Tech University, where he earned a BA in Journalism at the spry young age of 59.Damian was well-known for being a remarkable vocalist and founding member of the legendary Lubbock-based band Mi Tequila. He continued to play with various area bands throughout his life. Later in life, his passion for music continued to help him thrive in his career as a Program Director and DJ for KEJS/Power 106 where he created and hosted the wildly popular radio show “The Jalapeño Mix” until his retirement from radio. Music and singing were things Damian enjoyed most in life.On February 14, 1997, Damian married the love of his life, Irene, and he treated her like a queen.Damian gave his life to Christ in 2007. He again used his musical gifts while serving as the Praise and Worship Leader of his church family at Celebration Christian Center from 2010 to 2020.Those who knew Damian could describe him as determined, dedicated, and fiercely loyal to his friends and family. He was a wordsmith, a perfectionist, a jokester, a master menudo-maker, and many other wonderful things to his loved ones. He will be greatly missed.Damian won the battle against his illness and is now in the presence of our Lord.Survivors include his wife, Irene Esparza; their children, Monica Aleman, Gilbert Esparza, Andrea Esparza, Iris (Jessie) Marin, Jennifer Mendez, Ashley Ibarra; grandchildren, Maribel Rodriquez, Kelsey Cuellar, Alexis Esparza, DJ Garcia, Vanessa Esparza, Erin Segovia, Darrion Mendez, Zenn Marin, AJ Marin; seven greatgrandchildren; brother, Ray (Alicia) Esparza; He was preceded in death by his parents, Damian and Dionicia Esparza; and brother, Ruben Esparza.