Ruben Sanchez

On September 2, 2025, Ruben Sanchez’s body was finally healed as he left his earthly home and entered heaven with his Lord and Savior into his eternal home. Our family believes he left his wheelchair and cane behind as he ran into the arms of Jesus!

Ruben was born July 15, 1942. He grew up in Michigan and moved to Louisiana after joining the Air Force and was stationed at England Air Force Base in Alexandria. Ruben served in the United States Air Force for 7 years. Part of this time was spent in Vietnam. In 1966, he married the love of his life, Dianne Sanchez and remained devoted to her even after her death. Afterwards, he worked as a maintenance technician in local hospitals around the area. He spent the majority of his career at Doctors Hospital and then transitioned to Shriners Hospital for Children. When Ruben wasn’t working he was enjoying bowling at Holiday Lanes, supporting local sporting events like the Captain’s Baseball team, and cheering on the Saints. You could find him enjoying Mardi Gras parades or sitting in front of a slot machine!

For 45 years, Ruben loved playing the role of dad to Jason. He poured his heart into ensuring Jason had everything he ever needed, from material items, to support, to love, and to guidance. Even when Jason was a young teenager, Ruben would spend evenings driving Jason to calls for the fire department to ensure he met his dream of becoming a fireman. There was nothing Ruben wouldn’t do for Jason. Ruben also played a key role in the lives of Lisa Pumphrey and Theresa Redanauer. He loved these ladies like they were his daughters. They both played a major role in his life, especially the last few weeks as he needed extra care.

For the last 18 years Ruben has been an amazing father-in-law to Ashley and demonstrated a father’s love. He loved her unconditionally and provided her with the father figure. He and Dianne modeled for Jason and Ashley what a marriage should look like and how to raise a family.

Ruben was known as Papoo to many children that Dianne kept in her in-home daycare. In 2011, Ruben’s name was changed to Poo as his one and only grandson was born. Wyatt Sanchez was no doubt his pride and joy! He wanted to offer every experience he could to Wyatt. He loved being Wyatt’s partner in all things! The hole that will be left in his spot will only be able to be filled by our Lord.

Ruben was more than a family man. Ruben was a believer in Christ. Through good times and bad he turned to the Lord and directed his family to do the same. He was a devoted Catholic and attended Mass at Christ the King. His trust and love he placed in the Lord helped him receive the gift of heaven.

Ruben was preceded in death by his parents Victor and Maria Sanchez, his wife Dianne Sanchez, 8 siblings, and many other loved ones. He is survived by his son Jason Sanchez (Ashley) and grandson Wyatt, his sister Anna Sanchez, his sister Eva Ricker, and a long list of family and friends that love him dearly.

The family will host a visitation for Ruben on Sunday, September 7 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. On Monday, September 8, there will be a graveside service officiated by Dr. Gevan Spinney at The Rachal Cemetery in Marco, Louisiana at 11 am. Pallbearers will be Wyatt Sanchez, Colt Cooper, Tim Moran, Joe Rachal, Noah Cheek, Landon Barmore, and Benton Brown.

Ruben was a special man. He held the role of husband, daddy, fixer of all things, Poo (grandfather), bowler, and friend. His family loves and will miss him dearly, but we take peace in knowing that He is with the Lord. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Bossier City Fire Fighter Local 1051 Benevolent Fund. Donations can be sent to PO Box 6479 Bossier City, LA 71171.