Abelardo J. Sanchez

Al was born in Ramey, Colorado, on December 17, 1933, to Santos and Lucy Sanchez, during the height of the Great Depression. He graduated from Trinidad High School and went on to attend Trinidad State Junior College, where he majored in Building Trades & proudly played football and baseball for the Trojan teams.

In January 1955, Al enlisted in the United States Army and trained as a Military Policeman. Following the tragic passing of his father, Al returned home to care for his mother and help manage the family restaurant, El Mexicano.

On June 28, 1958, Al married the love of his life, Betty Ann Cordova. Together, they built a beautiful family and raised eight children: Joseph Alan Sanchez, Tracy Sanchez, Jacqueline Martinez, John (Roz) Sanchez, Jennifer (Bobby) Larrinaga, Timothy (Holly) Sanchez, Terence (Lana) Sanchez, and Daniel (Jennifer) Sanchez.

Al earned his BA in 1963 & his MA in 1967 from Adams State College. From 1963 to 1993 he was a teacher, Special Education Director, and principal for School District #1. He had a way of making students and adults alike feel seen, supported, and valued.

After retiring, Al continued serving the Trinidad community as a bailiff, Director of an Expulsion Program, and art teacher at the Alternative School.

Al was known and respected by generations of students, families, and colleagues. His children often witnessed people approaching their father in the community to thank him for the lasting impact he had made on their lives.

Al’s greatest legacy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took immense pride in his family. He loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports. When he could no longer attend in person, he streamed their games, sometimes watching two at a time. He continued painting his beautiful artwork and creating personal cards for his large extended family until just months before his passing.

Al is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Betty; his eight loving children; and his special grandchildren: Elizabeth (Andrew) Volkman, Victoria (Jeremy) King, Michael (Stephanie) Martinez, Kristin Mason, Laura Sanchez, Veronica (Josh) Gius, Jordana Nightshade, Nicholas (Tiffany) Mason, Joel Sanchez, Jacob (Halee) Sanchez, Jessica Mason, Shannon Sanchez, Jordan Sanchez, Maya (Alec) Cash, Jeremiah Sanchez, and Teren Sanchez. He is also survived by his precious 14 great-grandchildren, with one more great-grandchild expected in September.

He is also survived by his in-laws Marie Lucero, Agnes (John) Gomez, Bob (Zulema) Cordova, Anita Gonzales, Shirley Palacio, Betty Cordova; several godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and the entire Ambrose & Elsie Esquibel family.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Louise Sanchez; in-laws, John and Josephine Cordova; grandson Justin Sanchez; sons-in-law Vince Martinez and Chuck Mason; daughter in-law,

Karen ; brothers-in-law Emilio & Jimmy Cordova, Larry Gonzales, Frank Palacio, Alex Lucero, & John Cordova.

Al leaves behind a legacy of love, family, service, education, and countless lives changed for the better. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Services will be held Tuesday, September 1st at St. Paul’s the Apostle Catholic Church in Pueblo West 1132 W Ore Grande Dr.

Rosary: 11:30 am

Mass of Resurrection: 12:00 pm

Donations can be sent to Betty Sanchez for a memorial tribute in honor of Al.