Demecio "Ray" Raynel Sanchez

Beloved husband, dad, (great)grandpa, coach, teacher, mentor and friend, Demecio Raynel (Ray) Sanchez earned his angel wings on April 10, 2023, after a short battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Ray was born in Arroyo Seco, NM to Constancia Gallegos and Pablo Sanchez on Oct 26, 1937. After graduating from Monte Vista High School, he earned a diploma from the National School of Meat Cutting in Toledo, OH. He then earned a B.S. and Master’s degree from Adams State College in Alamosa, CO.

He taught and coached in Wray, CO and served as Vice Principal in Brighton, CO. At Widefield High School, he served as Dean of Students, Career Counselor, Spanish teacher, and coach. He coached many sports teams, but he was most proud of being the Widefield Men’s Basketball Coach. With his son Dominic as starting guard, Coach Sanchez led his team to win Widefield’s only basketball State Championship in 1985. Ray retired from teaching and coaching at Widefield in 1992.

Ray married Amabel (Mae) Espinoza on Aug 20, 1960. They had 5 children: Jacqueline Medina, Mary Jo Sanchez, Stephanie Lacy, Jonna (Luis) Vigo, and Dominic Sanchez. They have 7 grandchildren, Derrick Raedel, Michael (Carissa) Medina, Karmyn (Jacob) Riehl, Shantel (Jordan) Johnson, Alexis (Walter Salinas) Medina, Samantha Lacy, and Lucas Lacy. They have 7 great-grandchildren: Braxton Riehl, Jaylene Salinas, Madison Medina, Penélope Riehl, Jackson Medina, Carter Medina, and Norah Rose Raedel.

He is predeceased by his parents, 2 sisters, 2 brothers, son, Dominic, and daughter, Mary Jo.

Ray was a fan of the Denver Nuggets, Rockies, Broncos (even when they were playing “stinky”). He enjoyed spending time with his family, sitting in his chair watching sports, playing golf and poker with The Poops, and going to Cripple Creek. His gentle, mischievous nature and his sweet smile will be sorely missed.

Private family interment will be held at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Dove-Witt.com for the Sanchez family.