DEL NORTE — Longtime 7-mile Plaza resident, Christine Marie Sanchez, 75, passed away June 7, 2019 surrounded by her loving family. Christine was born May 9, 1944 to John and Josephine (Pacheco) Cordova in Del Norte.

She married Gilbert L. Sanchez on Nov. 24, 1962 in Del Norte and enjoyed 56 years of marriage. During their marriage, Christine and Gilbert shared the joy of music. While Gilbert played the guitar, Christine would sing. Their marriage was an example to their children and the community as they always took care of each other and were often seen holding hands.

She was a homemaker and had a sense of pride by keeping her home clean and having delicious meals prepared for her family when they came home. Christine loved music and dancing, especially Tom Jones (“He’s a Legend”). Her hobbies included gardening, shopping (especially yard sales!), camping, cooking, and family gatherings. She was most happy when she was entertaining guests and cooking for others. Christine had a quick wit and loved to laugh. Her family brought years of joy, pride and smiles to her.

She raised four children to know the importance of family, respect of their elders, and to find the joy in everyday life. Her children loved her feisty attitude and honesty. Christine had the ability to perceive when something was wrong with her loved ones, no matter how hard they tried to hide it from her or how sick she was. Her grandchildren were privileged to have grandma babysit them often and enjoyed her feisty attitude and great food. They have fond memories of her humorous ways and sayings. Laughter was heard often in the Sanchez household and would continue to be part of Christine’s life until her death.

Christine is survived by her loving husband, Gilbert Sanchez of Del Norte, children Mark (Heather) Sanchez, 7-Mile Plaza, Michael (Ramona) Sanchez of Del Norte, Karen (Allen) DeLong of South Fork, and Gilbert (Christina Gillenwater) Sanchez of the 7-Mile Plaza along with 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren (one on the way) as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sisters, Corrine (Gene) Gallegos and Nadine Cordova and brother, Albert (Gertrude) Cordova, all of Del Norte. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Margaret Woody, Dolores Martinez, and Sally Martinez and brother, Stevie Cordova.

Upon Christine and Gilbert’s wishes, cremation was chosen and a service will be held at a later date.