And so, let us pursue the things that are of peace, and let us keep to things that are for the building up of one another. -- Romans 14:19
Donald A. Sanchez, Sr. died peacefully at home on February 5th, 2021. At his side were his beloved wife Betty Sanchez and many members of his family. Donald died after a brave battle with lung cancer.
Donald's children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and godchildren were the pride and joy of his life. The legacy of his steadfast spirit, persistence in the face of many struggles, service to the faith community at St. Mary's Catholic Church, will endure in the lives of his loved ones.
Don was happiest when he and Betty were on vacation in Mazatlan, Mexico, on camping trips to the mountains, and simply having coffee in their back yard. Christmas gatherings were also very special to him, surrounded by family. He will be greatly missed.
Donald was an inspiration to all who knew him. He proudly served his country in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict aboard the USS Boxer (CV-21) and was honorably discharged in 1956. Using electronics skills learned in the Navy, Donald became a journeyman wireman and eventually went on to pass his electrical contractor exam and established his own company, Brotherhood Electric, in Farmington, New Mexico. Don was a proud member of IBEW Local Union 611 and served many years as Assistant Business Manager for the union until his retirement in 2002.
He is preceded in death by his father Alfonso Sanchez, mother Clara C de Baca, and brother Art Sanchez.
He is survived by his spouse Betty Elizabeth Sanchez (nee Vigil), sister Carol Hunt, and brother Gene F. Sanchez and children; Ginger Lynch (Damon), Joanna Bradfield (Bill), Roberta Lukens (Dave), Edward Sanchez (Teri), Therese Sanchez (Best Friend - Don), Donald Sanchez, Jr. (Sally), Madeline Richardson, Teresa Ferguson, Yvette Matamoros (Gabe), Lorraine Castillo (Reggie). Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Services:
Rosary: 10:30 am, Thursday, February 11th at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 2100 E 20th St, Farmington, NM 87401.
Mass: 11:00 am (following Rosary) at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
Interment: Following Mass at Greenlawn Cemetery, 1606 North Dustin Avenue, Farmington, New Mexico. COVID restrictions will apply.
Don Sanchez is in the care of Brewer Lee and Larkin Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers please donate specifically to the St. Mary's Youth Group at this link:
https://stmaryfarmington.weshareonline.org/ws/opportunities/SundayCollection
Special thanks to Danny Lorett at Infinity Medical Supply for his kindness and generosity, and to Dr. Sardar Zakariya Imam of San Juan Oncology for his expert, compassionate care of Don.