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Navy Gold Star Tributes
Gregory Ellis's dedication to service lead him to the United States Navy, where he embraced the call of duty with honor and commitment. He carried with him the values of integrity, strength, and loyalty traits that defined both his military service and his personal life. Greg always made time for his family and friends. With his trademark sense of humor, infectious laugh, and big smile, he knew how to make even the most serious situations light-hearted and fun. He will be remembered as someone with a giving heart, gentle spirit, and friend to all.
Richard was born in Fairfield CA, when on leave from the Navy, Richard continued his love of traveling and visited and enjoyed Berlin, Germany, Prague, Crech Republic, Hungry, Budapest and numerous places in the United States. Richard loved coming home to visit Vacaville and attending Fleet Week and Italian Festival in San Francisco every October with his Mom Eleanor, family and friends. Richard loved cooking, spending time with lots of family and friends. He made a point to visit everyone while home on leave. Richard loved the Oakland A's Baseball Team, he will especially be remembered for being a funny, caring, loving, Kind man. He treasured his family and friends; Richard will be remembered for living life to the fullest and making every moment of life count. He is deeply missed by his family and so many friends.
Mario Francisco Espino, a Navy Aircrewman, avid waterman, and proud local of Kailua, Hawaii, was born October 1st, 1987, in El Paso, Texas. He passed September 30th, 2020, the day before his 33rd birthday. Mario served as full-time support for VR-51 Windjammers at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base, which not only allowed him the opportunity to explore the world but provided him with an extended Navy family that he deeply cherished.
Mario lived a vibrant and active life, embracing every moment to its fullest. He enjoyed traveling the world while at the same time pursuing his passions for surfing and photography. He exemplified the “Spirit of Aloha” through his profound love for the island, its people, and his devotion to his wife, family, God, and friends. Mario’s love of the ocean was only surpassed by the love and aloha he spread with everyone fortunate enough to have met him.
Kevin graduated from Tolar High School in Tolar, TX in 2009. He chose to go to the Navy to help pay for college and for the discipline he knew he needed. He was known for his giant smile and innocence. It was easy to find him during Boot Camp graduation because he was (even though he was probably not supposed to) smiling from ear to ear. His friends in the Navy were protective of him and hold him in very high regard even now.