Rafael Sanchez of Atwater, CA passed away July 24, 2020 at the age of 84. Rafael was born May 19, 1936 in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico to the late Secundando Sanchez and Delia DeJesus Sanchez. He had one sister Rosita Lizardi.
Rafael is survived by his loving wife Vivian Sanchez, children, Carlos Sanchez and his wife Mary Allen, Doris Thiessen and her husband Brian, Edwin Sanchez, Joann Ybarra and her husband Rudy and Jeannette Quintero and her husband Gabriel Quintero. 17 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great grandchild. He is also survived by his niece Magali Lizardi Olmeda and her husband Edwin; nephews, Victor and Richard Lizardi.
Rafael grew up in Puerto Rico, entering into the United States Air Force after 22 years of his service. Rafael enjoyed bingo with his beloved wife, going to casinos, telling jokes and making everyone laugh. He often spoke about Puerto Rico, playing the Guiro, catching blue sand crabs, playing dominos with his friends, and feeding his birds.
So you sorrow now, but I will see you again; then you will rejoice and no one can rob you of joy. John 16:22