Jose Angel Trinidad Esquivel

Jose Angel Trinidad Esquivel, known to all as Joe, passed away surrounded by his family on March 7, 2026, in Ionia, Michigan, at the age of 80. He was born on July 25, 1945, in Plainwell, Michigan, to Trinidad and Faustina Esquivel. Raised in Fennville, Michigan, Joe moved to the Ionia area in 1979, where he built a life rooted in faith, family, and unwavering hard work.

Throughout his life, Joe was known for his remarkable work ethic. He held many jobs, including as a dough breaker, on produce farms, at Clover’s pig farm, and later at Matcor, always approaching each task with dedication and pride in providing for his loved ones. His faith was the cornerstone of his life. He loved Jesus deeply and lived that love openly, attending First Assembly of God in Ionia for 42 years alongside his wife. There he served faithfully through maintenance, greeting, and ushering, inspiring others with his steady trust in God through every circumstance.

Joe found great joy in the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting. He loved hosting large family cookouts, where he was almost always found at the grill. He cherished watching his grandchildren play sports and was a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. In his younger years, he enjoyed drag racing and earned trophies for his accomplishments. Those who knew him will remember his quick wit, his playful sense of humor, and the way he brought laughter into every room. Above all, he was his wife’s greatest supporter and encourager, extending that same steadfast love and guidance to every member of his family.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Esquivel; his five children, Everett Esquivel, Carmen Esquivel, Chasity Butler (Abram), Jose Esquivel (Melissa), and Trinity Esquivel (Sarah); his grandchildren, Abigail, Bradley, Eric, Harley (Zaine), Peyton, Jose, Tayvn, Emma, Aliyah, Rajalyaj, and Azalea; and 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Susie Gallegos of San Antonio, Texas; Consuelo Gonzalez (Frank) of Fennville, Michigan; Miguel Esquivel (Gracie) of Holland, Michigan; and Julianna Jasso (Jose) of Edinburg, Texas. His family finds comfort in the knowledge that he is now with the Lord he loved so dearly, and his laughter, love for others, and joyful spirit will live on in them for generations.