River Sanchez

River James Herminio Sanchez "Lil Rio", 7 months, of Albuquerque, NM passed away on February 10th in his mother's arms. River was born on July 10th, 2024 in Albuquerque, NM, the son of Brandon Sanchez and Mariah Mata. A soccer player in the making with all that kicking he would do in his crib with his swift moves and chunky legs. No doubt, it would set off the monitor and the bedside nurse would have to come in and silence the ringing alarms.

River especially loved eye to eye connection, it was probably one of his most favorite things besides snuggling with mom and dad. Such a people person. He would sit and chat with you all day, if you let him. River was named mayor of the NICU with his 6 month residency, having the corner room where everyone would come to visit him and tell him the latest gossip.

River was definitely intrigued by books, an avid reader in the making. He loved his warming bed in the NICU, destined to stay as cozy as possible. A very opinionated boy, he would tell you his thoughts about anything.

Remaining to cherish River's memory are his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, family, friends, and his NICU/PICU primary team at Children's Hospital Colorado. The care and love he received from the kind and knowledgeable staff at Children's hospital will NEVER be forgotten.

Memorial services will be held on March 20th, at 10am at 7121 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109 with Pastor Fred Gurule of Sagebrush Church officiating. Interment will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at a later time. Memorial donations in River's memory may be directed to Children's Hospital Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Aurora, or There With Care (for families & children facing critical illness) or National Kidney Foundation.