Joan Marie Escobedo

Joan Marie Escobedo January 4, 1935 – September 26, 2025

Joan Marie Escobedo, 90, of Littleton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025. She was born on January 4, 1935, in Del Norte, Colorado, to Fredrico Martinez and Mary Espinosa. To those who knew and loved her best, she was affectionately called Joanie or Joann.

Joan was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Patricia Ortega and Mary Ann Pacheco; her children, Jeannine Quintana-Gorombol, Peter Escobedo, and Therese Alvarez (Escobedo); and her grandchildren, Erika Alvarez and Javier Gutierrez (JR).

She is survived by her children, Christine Romero (Philbert), Michael Escobedo (Paula), and Angela Wilhelm(William); her grandchildren, Adrian Escobedo (Norma), Derek Alvarez (Sofie), Amanda Escobedo, Leondro Alvarez, Desirae Godoy (Luis), Andrew Wilhelm-Inouye (Kyle), Sydni Wilhelm, Mark Phinpraphat (Leah), Mindy Phinpraphat, Aysia Phinpraphat (Jaylene), Marcus Phinpraphat (Daniella), and Paula Phinpraphat; her great-grandchildren, Devon Escobedo (Ari), Jaden Escobedo (Jayme), Ricki Alvarez, Leonidas Alvarez, Nikki Godoy, Nevaeh Godoy, Brooklyn Horn, Elijiah Phinpraphat, Issac Phinpraphat, Alissa Padilla (Ziggy), and Mercedes Phinpraphat-Hernandez (Christian); and her great-great-grandchild, Mateo. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Joan retired from RTD, where she worked as a stock clerk, and was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church. Known for her love of scratch tickets, Rummikub, puzzles, and playing slot machines, whether on her computer or in the casino. She also enjoyed cheering on her Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies. She especially treasured her time with friends in the “M&M Lunch Bunch,” where laughter and stories were always in abundance.

Joan was a devoted mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her family and ensure they always had what they needed. She was a selfless person when it came to love, always ready to help in any way she could. Family meant everything to her, and she found joy in every stage of it, as a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and beyond. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, often turning everyday moments into memories that they will always carry with them. Joan had a remarkable memory when it came to family history, and she loved to share stories, even ones you may have heard before, because retelling them brought her happiness and reminded everyone how deeply she cared for those she loved.

She cherished bringing people together and was the reason the Espinosa Family Reunion began, a tradition that reflected her greatest joy of being surrounded by those she loved. She was happiest when her home was filled with laughter, conversation, and the closeness of family. Her love was steady, her presence a comfort, and her legacy will continue to live on in the traditions and bonds she helped create.

Though our hearts ache with her passing, her memory will forever guide and inspire us. We will carry her love, her laughter, and her strength in our hearts always.

Service Information

• Rosary and Mass: Thursday, October 16, 2025. Rosary at 10:30 a.m. with Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m., Holy Name Catholic Church, 3290 W Milan Ave, Sheridan, CO 80110
• Reception: Following Mass at Holy Name Catholic Church, 3290 W Milan Ave, Sheridan, CO 80110
• Burial of Ashes: Friday, October 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., Mt. Olivet, 12801 W 44th Ave, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, for family and friends who wish to join