Miriam “Lala Iyam” Espinosa, age 46, of Oakdale, MN, passed away unexpectedly in a car accident on July 19, 2019, with her fiancé, Tom Plasch.
Preceded in death by her parents, Trinidad and Ramon; sister, Lilia; and brother, Onick.
Survived by her 5 children, Shaira “Shine” (David), Malculm, Demi, Samarah “Sam”, and Denice “Neneng”; 2 grandchildren, Zachary and Zayden; siblings, Ramon Jr. (Emma), Julieta (Mark), Delia (David), Janet (Amerigo) and Russell (Helen); several nieces and nephews; and other loving family and friends.
Miriam was born on October 16, 1972 in Cebu City, Philippines. She was the youngest of 8 siblings and the baby of the family.
In the late 90’s, Miriam moved to Leyte, Philippines with her children, Shaira and Malculm, and established a life there. She had 3 more children, Demi, Sam, and Neneng and lived there until 2008.
Miriam loved being a mother and grandmother. She was a dedicated mom to her 5 children. In 2008, Miriam and her eldest daughter, Shaira, moved from The Philippines to America so that she could provide a better life for her 4 other children back home. Miriam experienced her share of struggles, especially being away from her 4 youngest children, but was a strong woman. Until the day she passed away, she continued to work hard to give her children the best life they could have.
Miriam loved to cook (the best cook in the family!) and spend time in her flower and vegetable gardens. She cared for the people she worked with and many coworkers called her “grandma” as a nickname. She enjoyed being with family and friends and spending time at her fiancé, Tom’s, cabin. Miriam was full of life and loved to dance. She had a vibrant personality and lit up a room every time she walked in. She will be remembered for her contagious laugh and loving and caring nature.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial Monday, July 29, 2019, 11:00 AM at TRANSFIGURATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 6133 – 15th St. N, Oakdale, MN. Visitation Sunday, July 28, 2019, from 4 – 7 PM at SANDBERG FUNERAL HOME, 2593 E. 7th Ave., North St. Paul, MN, and one hour prior to the Mass at church.