Francisco D. Sanchez, Jr.

Francisco D. "Frank" Sanchez, Jr., age 91, a resident of Albuquerque since 1945, died on Monday, February 12, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Viola; son, Don Sanchez; granddaughter, Rachel Sanchez; two great-grandchildren, Camille and Cameron Medina; and numerous other relatives and friends. Frank was preceded in death by his grandson, Julian Vincent Sanchez; and son, Frank D. Sanchez III.

He was born in 1926 in Santa Rosa, NM to Francisco D. Sr. and Candelaria Gallegos Sanchez. Frank graduated from Santa Rosa High School and then attended the University of New Mexico where he obtained his Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Education. He started to work for APS in 1949 and then when the Korean Conflict started, Frank was drafted and served honorably for two years. Frank then returned to APS as a football, basketball coach, and baseball coach, teaching English and Math. He then received his administrative certificate and worked his way up to Superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools, retiring in 1985. Frank then went to work in Santa Fe in the Department of Education. He was proud of work he did in the field of excellence in education, working especially with President Ronald Reagan and others. Frank loved to read and also take trips to Las Vegas. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Cremation has taken place and private ennichement will take place at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.