Herman Roberto Sanchez, Sr.

In Loving Memory of Herman Sanchez Sr.

Herman Roberto Sanchez Sr., a beloved resident of Albuquerque, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2023, at the age of 91. He was born on December 7, 1931, in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, and his journey through life was marked by unwavering love, service, and an indomitable spirit.

Herman's life was one of service and dedication. He attended local schools in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, and at the young age of 19, he was inducted into the Army and was stationed in Munich, Germany.  Serving his country honorably overseas during the Korean era in Germany, Herman displayed the same commitment and sense of duty throughout his civilian life. He worked for 37 years in the Fuels department at Kirtland Air Force Base, retiring in 1989. Additionally, he owned and operated Rex Cigar store in downtown Albuquerque during the late 1960s.

Herman was not just a man; he was a living encyclopedia of history and a masterful storyteller. With a remarkable ability to recall names, dates, and places, he wove captivating narratives about his family's genealogy and origins that left his listeners spellbound. His love for history was infectious, and he regaled those around him with stories of European Kings and Queens, each tale enriched with unique nuances. War stories and the origins of the Catholic Church were among his favorite topics, but Herman also had a mischievous side. He delighted in sharing his "Huckleberry Finn-like" adventures as a young boy in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, where he always seemed to find trouble, often with his little dog "Tiny." Herman's storytelling was a gift that enriched the lives of those lucky enough to hear his tales.

Herman was a proud member of VFW Post 49, American Legion Post 99, and DAV Chapter 3, where he continued to serve by helping fellow veterans obtain their benefits. He was known for his compassionate nature, serving as a caregiver to those in need.

Herman is preceded in death by his true loves, Lucy Lamson and Magda Helmick, his parents Sotero Sr. and Beatrice Sanchez, and his brothers Canuto, Ernest, Sotero Jr., Orlando, Albert, and Joe, as well as sisters Ernestine and Janet. He is survived by his loving family, including his daughter Elaine Garcia and her husband Frank, his daughter Roberta Duda and her husband Kevin, his son Herman Sanchez Jr. and his wife Maria, and his daughter Carol Hammond and her life partner Linda Reece. He is also survived by his brother Gene Sanchez and his wife Dorothy, as well as sisters June Ziegenfuss and her husband Larry and Juliet Dempsey.

Herman's gift of patience and unconditional love knew no boundaries. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Nicole Savell and her husband Steve, Crystal Wilcoxen and her husband Matt Youngman, Kimberly Mounts and her husband Lopaka, Brittany Davis and her husband Chris, Gavin Hammond, Amber Blacknall and her husband Bobby, Jason Duda and his wife Keira, Garrett Duda and his wife Brooke, Rob Sanchez and Caly Sanchez. He is also survived by 21 great-grandchildren, who were a source of great joy in his life.

Herman Sanchez Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and an unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and fellow veterans. His memory will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to have known him, and his stories will continue to inspire generations to come. While we mourn his passing, we take solace in the knowledge that he will never be forgotten, and his spirit will forever live on in our hearts.

Honorary Pallbears; Gavin Hammond, Jason Duda, Garrett Duda and Rob Sanchez.

Rosary to be held Thursday, October 12, 2023 at 6:00 pm, French Funerals and Cremations, 10500 Lomas Blvd., Albuquerque, NM 87112, reception to follow.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 13, 2023 at 1:30 pm, Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery (Mausoleum), 7999 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109.  Reception to follow .

In lieu of flowers the family asks you make a donation in Herman's memory to

Autistic Self Advocacy Network

https://autisticadvocacy.org/

The Diabetes Research Connection

https://diabetesresearchconnection.org/