Michael Richard Sanchez

Michael Sanchez, 72, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 5, 2025. Michael was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was the youngest of three brothers. 

He is survived by his spouse of 53 years, Maxine Sanchez; children, Doreen Sanchez-Pendleton and spouse Matt Pendleton, and Michael Sanchez II; grandchildren, Mateo Koepp and spouse Leah Senator-Koepp, and Adan Koepp and great-grandchild, River Koepp. He is also survived by brother, Robert Sanchez; sister-in-law, Terry Sanchez and first cousin, Chuck Perea and spouse Corless Perea. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Rita and Arcino Sanchez of Albuquerque, New Mexico; brother John Sanchez of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

 Michael is a 37-year retiree of IBM. He is a 1971 graduate of West Mesa High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Michael went to the North American Technical Institution. He won several means service awards in his career at IBM. In retirement, he enjoyed his family, fishing, and gardening. In his last years, Michael spent his time gardening in Gallup, NM, with his son, Michael Sanchez II. He was often found tinkering in his garage on different projects, such as building picture frames, refurbishing his beloved pinball machine, or playing pool with his grandchildren. Michael was an avid craftsman. Michael was a gentle soul with a kind heart. He was described as funny, reliable, and stoic. In his younger years, Michael frequented concerts such as Woodstock '94’ & '99, Grand Funk Railroad, Chicago, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, and so many more. He was a regular daredevil on his motorcycle or hotrod car. Michael played softball and bowled with his brothers and father. We would like to say a special thank you for Michael’s end of life care to the nurses at the University of New Mexico Hospital, Medical ICU. They helped us with this process tremendously. Services will be held at a later date. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

“Our Family Serving Yours”