Vega, Frank Espinoza Vega, Frank "Pancho" Espinoza 69, of Phoenix, AZ passed away on June 21, 2010. A lifetime resident of Phoenix, Arizona, Frank Vega passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, June 21, 2010. Frank was born in Phoenix on November 25, 1940, to Martha Espinoza and Juvenito Vega. He also had a stepfather, Jose Perez. All have preceded him in death. Frank was a longtime employee of Honeywell in Phoenix, and retired after 31 years. Frank always owned a motorcycle, and loved to ride. He enjoyed family cookouts, fishing, hunting, camping, cooking at home, watching movies and shopping for the latest electronics. There was nothing of more importance to Frank than being devoted to his family, and the feeling was mutual. His special sense of humor and his heart of gold will never be forgotten by those lucky enough to have known him. Frank Vega was an honest, hard working and strong-willed father, son, brother, uncle and grandfather. He was the cornerstone of our family, and can never be replaced. Although we know he is still with us in spirit, we will always miss hearing his laughter and seeing his beautiful smile. He will never be forgotten. At the time of his passing, Frank was surrounded by his loving family. His wife, Sally Vega, his daughters- Lorraine Vega-Hazelwood, Martha Tristan (Steve), Frances Hall (Kelly), and his sons- Alfonso Vega and Gabriel Vega (Yolie), all of Phoenix. Frank and Sally share eight beautiful grandchildren. Frank also leaves behind his two beloved chihuahuas- Chica and Baby Pedro. Frank is also survived by a daughter- Nancy Flores of Pinetop, AZ, a son- Frank Vega Jr. of Victorville, CA, and a daughter- Debbie Chacon of Gilbert, AZ. Additionally, he has five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren from his extended family. Services will be held at Immaculate Heart Catholic Church, 909 E. Washington St in Phoenix on Thursday, June 24 at 10:00 AM. Published in The Arizona Republic on June 24, 2010