Jessie Mendoza passed away peacefully at his home in Kennewick, WA on August 5, 2009. Jessie was born in Matehuala, San Luis Potosi, Mexico on November 20, 1937 to Simon and Presiliana Mendoza Espinoza. Jessie came to Texas when he was a baby. He went to school and worked in the fields with his family. He moved to Rupert, ID in the early 1960?s and continued working in the fields. When he was in his early 20?s, he met his first wife and had two children. They moved to Grandview, ID where Jessie worked for J.R. Simplot Company for 12 years as a foreman and parts personnel. He was always a hard worker and moments of pride were shared when he earned and received his GED and became a citizen of the United States in 1969. Jessie raised his two children then moved to Baker City, OR where he and his first wife resided until she became ill and passed away. Then Jessie went to Saudi Arabia for a year as a foreman installing pumps on the pipelines. When he returned he lived in the Tri-Cities where he met his wife Aileen Ogata. They lived in the Tri-Cities. Jessie worked as a truck driver for the Agriculture Industrial business and Aileen was a school teacher. They both retired and traveled to Seattle to see their Mariners play. Many good times were spent while visiting his brothers, sisters, his children, grandchildren and special time with the Ogata family. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Aileen Ogata Mendoza, daughter Kelli and husband Jose Orozco, son Steven Bradley Mendoza, granddaughter Jessica, grandsons Israel and David. Five great grandchildren, brothers Gabino Espinoza, Andres Espinoza, Pete Espinoza, sisters Josie Escobedo and Christina Gonzalez, along with many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Judith Carol Mendoza, his parents, brother and three sisters. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jessie Mendoza?s name to the American Diabetes Association or the Tri-Cities Cancer Center. Our family wishes to thank Dr. James Campbell who was a friend as well as Jessie?s primary doctor, the hospice staff, family and friends for all their kindness, compassion and support.