MONTE VISTA — Private Tommy Ernest Sanchez passed away on March 26, 2020, at the Spanish Peaks Veterans Center in Walsenburg. He was born on December 29, 1950, in Monte Vista, the son of Jose P. and Senaida Sanchez.

Tommy enjoyed dancing. He and his friend, Danny Naranjo would compete against each other and they were known as the two best dancers in Monte Vista. Tommy also liked his music, he especially loved Elvis and would sing along with him. He used to entertain staff with his impersonation of Elvis at the Spanish Peaks Veterans Center.

Tommy went to school in Monte Vista and in San Jose, CA at Mt. Pleasant High School. He was drafted in 1971 and was discharged at Ft. Ord, CA. 

Tommy is survived by five siblings: sister, Josie Sanchez of Benet Hill Monastery; Ted (Darlene) Sanchez of CA; Theresa Sanchez of Monte Vista; Richard (Josie) Sanchez of Monte Vista; and Ruth (Jerry) Garcia of Alamosa.

Tommy is also survived by his veteran brothers from the Spanish Peaks Veterans Center, his sisters, and the nurses who took care of him at Spanish Peaks Center. Since he didn’t have any children he is survived by the following nieces and nephews: Carleen Sanchez (Tom Martin) of Austin; Shelley (Greg) Mauer of Dallas; Eli (Theresa) Benavides, Chris (Cedrick) Benavides, David Benavides, Joseph (Elena) Benavides, Jason (Wilma) Benavides, Richard Ray Sanchez II, Geraldine (Jesus) Cardona and Anita (Manuel) Vigil.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Felix Alfonso Sanchez; two sisters; grandparents, Moises and Francis Gutierrez. He was also preceded in death by his nephews: Richard Ray Sanchez I and Kenny Paul Sanchez.

Due to the restrictions on public gatherings, a private family service will take place at Homelake Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Romero Funeral Home and a memorial mass in Tommy’s honor will be announced at a later date. To leave online condolences please visit romerofuneralhomes.com. The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Funeral Home of Monte Vista.