John Espinoza
State Representative John Espinoza comes from humble beginnings. Growing up in a family of migrant farm workers, he worked the cotton fields of Texas and the sugar beet fields of Michigan’s Thumb. John’s parents always taught him that education and a sense of community were the keys to success. His family, church, teachers and community continued to reinforce those teachings.
John has drawn upon those teachings throughout his life. He took those teachings into combat with him when he was a 19-year-old soldier serving in Vietnam. As a squad leader, he knew he could not let down his men, family, country or faith. He did not.
John has served his community well as a police officer, teacher, career soldier, local elected official, and now as the state representative for Michigan’s 83rd House District. His commitment to those he has served is unquestioned. “Others before self” is not just a slogan for John, it’s a way of life.
John has spent a lifetime in service to his community and his nation.
Growing up in a family of migrant workers, John worked the sugar beets of Michigan's Thumb as a young man. He later joined the Croswell Police Department and moved on to become a deputy with the Sanilac County Sheriff's Department. He also worked as a teacher with the Carsonville-Port Sanilac School District.
John was elected to one term on the Sanilac County Board of Commissioners and served for two terms on the Croswell City Council. He also worked on the staff of former Congressman Jim Barcia as the Military Affairs and Community Outreach Liaison.
At 18, John enlisted in the Army and was immediately recognized for his leadership skills in basic training. He was shipped off to Vietnam, where he earned several awards and decorations for his actions in combat. He left the Army in 1971, and re-enlisted in 1977. He eventually rose to the rank of First Sergeant and served during the First Gulf War. He retired from the Army in 1995 with 20 years of service.
John attended Croswell-Lexington High School. He holds an Associate's Degree from Central Texas College and a Bachelor of Science from the University of the State of New York. He earned his teaching certification from Saginaw Valley State University.
John and his wife, Mary, have been happily married since 1969. They have three adult sons, James, Christopher and Daniel, and six grandchildren, Carissa, Elijah, Olivia, Ian, Isaac and Gavin.