Patricia Sanchez

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Patricia, lovingly known as Pat, was an amazing woman. She was the type of person who always saw the best in people and the good in a situation. No matter the circumstances, she always had a smile on her face and a kind word to say. She was a fighter. She had endless patience, empathy, and a bright bubbly personality. She could make anyone laugh. If you spent any amount of time with her, you walked away feeling loved. As remembered by her son, “Pat did not know a stranger”; she had an open heart. Her home was always full of laughter, family and friends.

Pat was married for 54 years to her husband Joe Sanchez. They met in college while working at the Yosemite Lodge. Joe joined the service, and they reconnected after he was discharged. They eloped in Vegas in 1969, and had a loving marriage and friendship. Joe was Pat's comfort, solace and life-long partner.

Pat and Joe loved to travel together. In retirement, they took their trailer all around the United States and made many memories. They traveled abroad together to Ireland and Scotland. Their favorite place to go was a campsite near Oakhurst. They have been visiting there since they started dating, even just to spend an hour having a KFC picnic, enjoying a quiet hour together by a creek in the woods. As their family grew, they eventually brought their children and grandchildren to the same spot.

Pat was very involved in her church. She worked on the bulletin boards throughout the church and with the young children in Sunday school.

Pat embodied God’s word and truly had a heart for people. She had a trunk full of care packages; ready to give to anyone who may have needed them.

Pat is survived by her husband, Joe, her children, Randel and Rebecca, and her grandchildren, DeAnna, Bex, Christian, Elyssa and Joseph. She is remembered fondly and will be missed until they are with her again.