Robert Sanchez, a resident of Porterville, CA passed away surrounded by family on October 8, 2022 at the age of 77. Robert was preceded in death by his parents Arcadio and Regina Sanchez and his brothers Frank and Jesus “Chuy” Sanchez. Robert is survived by his wife Lupe of 45 years, his two daughters Kristi Sanchez (Phillip Todd) and Kara Shelton (Gunnar), his precious grandson Bennet Sanchez Todd, and his sisters Socorro “Coco” Jimenez, Carmen Sanchez, Mona Lopez and Mary Allen.
Robert was born on February 16, 1945 in Guadalajara, Mexico. As a young child, he came to the U.S. and resided in Woodville, CA up until moving to his permanent residence in Porterville, CA. Robert graduated from Porterville High School in 1965. That same year, he enlisted in the U. S Navy where he was stationed in San Diego, CA. He served in the Vietnam War for 18 months and earned a National Defense Service Medal and a Vietnam Service Medal. In 1969, he received Honorable Discharge after his 4 years of service. A few years upon his return to the Central Valley, he attended Porterville College for two years. During this time, he met the love of his life, Lupe, on a blind date set up by mutual friends. They got married on July 9, 1977 at St. Anne’s Church.
In 1969, Robert began working as a Senior Plant Mechanic at Jostens in Porterville where he was known as a very hard worker and an expert in his trade. He was looked upon by others as a vital asset to his department and company. After his 28 years, Jostens shut their doors and he moved across the street to work at Standard Register where he was there for 3 years up until their official closing. Soon after, he ended up around the corner at Royalty Carpets where he stayed until his retirement.
One of Robert’s favorite hobbies was working on his white 1935 Dodge pick-up truck that he nicknamed “Casper”. He was so proud of that truck, being that he rebuilt it from the ground up. He loved to fix things, owning about every tool that exists. He was the all-time handyman. He also loved to take care of his yard, where it always looked so immaculate. If it was the weekend, you could always count on seeing him mowing the front lawn or working on something in the garage. Some years ago, Robert and his wife Lupe enjoyed Friday nights at China’s Alley in Lindsay where they listened to live music and danced the night away. Robert also just loved spending time with his family, taking them to Pismo Beach every summer as his two daughters were growing up.
If you knew Robert personally, you would always catch a glimpse of his goofy side, whether it was giving you a silly smile or breaking out in a song and he just loved him some oldies but goodies and mariachi music. Those moments will be dearly missed. You would also know that one of his favorite places to be was at home, with his family. He took great pride in caring for his wife and daughters. He loved visits with his daughters once they moved away, and he just lit up every time his grandson came around. Being a grandpa brought him so much joy and he has proven to be the best grandpa in the world.
Robert will always be remembered as the incredible husband, father, and grandfather that he was. He was also such a funny, strong and caring man and we are all truly blessed to have had him in our lives. The memories that we all share with him will live in our hearts forever.
We love you and miss you every day Dad. Until we meet again…
A Rosary will be held at Myers Chapel, Porterville, California on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 6:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Cross Church, Porterville, California on Friday, October 21, 2022 at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Vandalia Cemetery, Porterville, California.
Arrangements are being handled by Myers Funeral Service and Crematory, 248 North E Street, Porterville, California 93257. To light a virtual candle, share a memory, or express condolences to the family, please visit the tribute section of our website at
www.myersfuneral.com/obituaries
. Myers Funeral Service & Crematory in Porterville is in charge of arrangements.