Fredrico "Freddie" Patricio Sanchez

Fredrico "Freddie" Patricio Sanchez, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the age of 91.

Freddie was born on June 26, 1935, in Yeso, New Mexico, to Isidro Sanchez Sr. and Olympia de la Concepción Cordova. Raised in a large, close-knit family rooted in the traditions of rural New Mexico, he learned early the values of faith, humility, hard work, and unwavering devotion to family.

Freddie proudly served in the United States Army before returning home to New Mexico. On September 21, 1957, he married the love of his life, Katy Leyba. Together they built a beautiful life and raised their family in Bernalillo, New Mexico, where Freddie spent the remainder of his life.

Following his military service, Freddie enjoyed a long career with the Bernalillo Public Schools, where he retired after many years of dedicated service. He was a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Bernalillo and was a founding member of the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Posse.

Freddie was known for his quiet strength, gentle spirit, generous heart, and steadfast commitment to those he loved. His greatest pride and accomplishment were his family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved adopted daughter and great-granddaughter, Mariah D. Gauna-Sanchez. Although Mariah was his great-granddaughter by birth, Freddie and Katie lovingly adopted and raised her as their own daughter. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Isidro Sanchez Sr. and Olympia de la Concepción Cordova; his brothers and sisters, Daniel Sanchez, Ernestine Espinosa, Louisa Baca, Isidro Leopoldo Sanchez Jr., Bonifacio Sanchez, Alfonso Sanchez, Ismael Sanchez, and Dora Chavez; his grandson, Carlos A. Jojola; and his son-in-law, Johnny Jojola.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 69 years, Katy Sanchez; his children, Sharon J. Rubin (Charlie), Stephanie Sanchez-Jojola, and Gregory Sanchez (Deidra), Timothy; his grandchildren, Kimberly Delara (Vince), Ryan Rubin (Samantha), Karena Rubin (Ivan Torres), Tonya Jaramillo (Jeff), Dominic Jaramillo, Juanito Jojolla Jr, Ashley Sanchez, Greg Sanchez Jr.(Amanda), and Angelique Sanchez (Devin VanHoose); his great-grandchildren, Hayley Rubin, Julian Torres, Maiya Torres, Reese Rubin, Brandon Gutierrez, Michael Griego, and Corrina Griego; Destiny Castillo, Lawrence Castillo, Elias Sanchez, Lia Sanchez, Mikayla Sanchez, Dustin VanHoose, Audrina VanHoose; his Great-Great Grandkids Ameriah Gauna-Sanchez, Emilo Gauna-Sanchez, Amelia Gauna-Sanchez, Alliah Griego, Carlos A Jojola Jr, Gabriella A Jojola, Athena H Jojola; his sister Delores Vallejos and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers and support. Freddie’s life was one of service—to his country, his family, his church, and his community. Services will be announced at a later date.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed, always and forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace.

We would like to thank Michelle Sandoval for the care, compassion and thoughtfulness you put into writing the obituary. You captured his life and spirit in such a beautiful and meaningful way, giving us words that honored his memory, and brought comfort during this difficult time. We are deeply grateful for the time and heart you devoted to helping us celebrate a life so dearly loved.