Juan Paul Sanchez

Juan "John" P. Sanchez (Johnny the Bull), passed away on Thursday, September 9, 2021, at the Heart Hospital with his devoted wife, Janice and two sons, Marcos and David at his side. John was born Wednesday, August 13, 1952 in Los Chavez, New Mexico. He was preceded in death by both parents, Sylvester and Isabelle Sanchez; brother, David Sylvester Sanchez; sister, Angela Sanchez; and his loving daughter, Marlysa Marie Sanchez. John is survived by his wife, Janice of 42 years who was his soulmate, strength, inspiration, steadfast rock, and love of his life. John is also survived by his sons, Marcos "Bubba" Sanchez and David Ray Sanchez; sister, Rose Candelaria; four grandchildren, Elion Torres, Elise, Elena Sanchez, and David Ray Sanchez II; and many cherished family members and friends.

John leaves a legacy of life stories that will live on. John attended high school for two years at the New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell and received his high school diploma from Belen High. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army where he was assigned as a door gunner in the Vietnam War. John was a very proud VET who received many military honors. John also obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's Degree in Education. Over the years, John pursued his passion for boxing where he individually won a State Golden Gloves Title, then becoming a professional boxer for six years. His enthusiasm for boxing led him to become a boxing coach where he won five State Team Golden Glove Titles. John received the Governor's (Bruce King) Certificate of Achievement for his dedication and commitment to the sport of boxing for the youth of the community of Los Lunas. John was inducted into the Wall of Honor in boxing on August 25, 1999. John then joined and graduated from the Police Academy in Santa Fe where he eventually became Los Lunas Public Schools first police officer. John also had a passion for politics where he would debate anyone on any issue. He stood proud for what he believed in. John contributed to his community as an umpire for the Los Lunas Little League and coach for the Los Lunas YAFL football team, but John was impassioned with his own kids' sports where he and his wife, Janice traveled and supported their children with pride. After retiring from the Los Lunas Public Schools, John spent his leisure time at various restaurants in Los Lunas reading his newspaper and enjoying his coffee and conversations with buddies, spending many joyous times with wife at the casinos, but the highlight of his time was spent with his grandchildren. He was an extraordinary grandfather. His joy of animals came with his kind, caring love for his best pet friends, Baby Girl his horse, and Sassy his cat, who both will miss John's presence very much!

John you will forever be in the hearts of many!

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 1, 2021, 10:00 a.m., at Calvary Chapel New Harvest of Los Lunas. A Private Burial will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at a later date.

Pallbearers will be Caden Ortiz, Chris Crespin, Damir Pyle, Robert Gallegos, Ricardo Hernandez, and Jonathan Garcia.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Aaron Pyle, Elion Torres, Elise, and Elena Sanchez.