Timothy A Sanchez of Escondido passed away peacefully on a beautiful Sunday morning at sunrise with his beloved Familia at his side. A devout and faithful Catholic his entire life, Tim left this world to start the new day in heaven.
Tim was born in Walsenburg, Colorado, to Max P. And Percilia Sanchez. His family later moved to Winslow AZ where he met and married the love of his life, Angelina (Gigi), and enlisted in the US. Armed Forces.
Tim and Gigi’s 59-year life adventure began in Vicenza, Italy, where their first daughter was born. Two years later, he was stationed in Phoenix, AZ, where their second daughter was born. From there, the family traveled the world, as Tim’s career took him to Korea, Germany, England, South Wales, Vietnam, and Japan, as well Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico in the United States.
A Vietnam veteran, Tim retired from the Army with a Bronze Star Medal, after 20 years of service. From there he briefly worked for Lockheed, before moving to a career in Civil Service. As head of security for Barking Sands Missile Range in HI, Point Mugu Naval Air Station in CA, and Ft. Irwin in CA, Tim was grateful for the rewarding life experiences this career provided as well as the opportunity to continue serving his beloved country. After retiring from Civil Service, he continued working for the U.S. Department of Defense as a government contractor, conducting background investigations for security clearances, until he began treatment for cancer six years ago.
Tim enjoyed golfing, RV road trips, saving money with coupons, as well casinos, Walmart, and the 99¢ Store. But all his interests took a distant back seat to his love of God, family, friends, country, and his pet shitzu, Teddy. He and Gigi were happiest when family gathered at their house for delicious meals, his world famous margarita, music, games, joking and laughing.
Tim was a man of integrity, strength, dignity, joy, love, grace and faith, and he shared those qualities generously. Family and friends referred to him as their rock, and told stories of Tim’s willingness to help each of them without expectation of anything in return. His only desire was to ensure his loved ones felt his encouragement, love and support as they navigated their life journeys.
One of those who felt Tim’s support the most is his granddaughter, Kristen, who he helped raise, like a daughter. When Tim was told six years ago, his colorectal cancer had metastasized to his lungs, he was sad he wouldn’t be able to see his two great grandsons grow. But his faith and great medical care, gave him time to see them grow from babies to energetic, mischief makers who brought him joy until the end of his life.
Due to COVID-19 services will be private and limited. He will be buried at Miramar National Cemetery. A memorial service, celebrating his life will be scheduled when the pandemic has passed as well as a full honors military ceremony with 21 gun salute.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to an organization of your choice in Tim’s honor. Tim was especially grateful to The Church of the Resurrection in Escondido, CA; and UCSD Moore’s Cancer Center, where he received experimental treatment.
Tim is survived by His beloved wife, Gigi, of 59 years; his four-legged fur baby, Teddy; daughters, Trish (Jim) and Annette (Ken); granddaughter, Kristen (Marc); great grandsons, Jason and Sean; sister, Bernadette (Rick); sisters-in-law, Frances, Flora (Johnny), and Kazue; Aunt Lillian; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.
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