John Sanchez, 92, a long time Salida resident passed away at home on July 10, 2025. He was born on June 16, 1933, in Rodarte, New Mexico, to Levi and Augustina Sanchez. John moved to Brighton, CO, with his parents and then they relocated to Leadville, CO, shortly thereafter where he met his future wife, Evangeline Sanchez. John went to work with the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad in 1951, working for them off and on between layoffs. When he wasn’t working for the D&RGW he was working cleaning timber for the Twin Lakes Dam Project. John was finally hired as a full-time employee with the D&RGW where he worked as a section laborer, tie gang foreman and Road master until his retirement in 1993. John and Evangeline were married on September 19, 1952. They made their home in Leadville, CO. They had four children, Michael Sanchez, Joyce Sanchez, John Sanchez, and Patricia Sanchez. In 1970 John and Evangeline moved their family to Salida, CO, when John transferred to work in the Salida Section. As John and Evangeline’s family grew, they welcomed new family members. Laura Houston was introduced to the family in 1984 and quickly became an integrated member of the family. John was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. He was highly respected for the manner in which he led his life. John was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, son John, daughter Joyce, son-in-law Doug Soli, brothers Leo, Paul, Levi Jr., and sister Shirley Archuleta. He is survived by his children Michael (Brenda) Sanchez, Patrica Sanchez, Laura Houston; brothers Gilbert Sanchez and Floyd (Margie) Sanchez; sisters Dorothy Mascarenas and Alice Sanchez; daughter-in-law Angelina Sanchez; many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A private graveside service will be held on July 16, 2025. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home in Salida.
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