It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of a remarkable man, Joe Arnold “Carnero” Sanchez, who left us to be with the Lord on Feb. 10, 2025. Born on June 20, 1946, in the serene town of Chama, Colo., to Bonifacio Sanchez and Cleofas Maestas.  Arnold’s journey through life was filled with moments that showcased his resilience, love, and dedication. 

Arnold took great pride in knowing his father was a Prisoner of War (POW) Missing in Action (MIA) in World War II. Growing up fast and hard after losing his father at a very young age, Arnold took on the responsibility of helping raise his siblings James, Diane, and Vernon, and taking care of his mother, Cleofas. 

As a youth, Arnold was one of the original members of the “Teen Tops,” playing the drums alongside Lerry Medina, Freddy DeHerrera, and Marvin Medina. He had a passion for music. Throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and working on his classic vehicles, of which he owned many. Arnold cherished being surrounded by family and friends. 

He found joy in watching WWE wrestling, western movies, and attending Denver Nuggets games with his grandson James Jimmy and brother Vernon. He was an avid supporter of his Denver Broncos on Sundays. He also created special memories with his granddaughter Nicole, taking her camping, fishing, and riding on the ATV. 

Arnold valued the time he spent with his son James Sr. in California and Las Vegas and enjoyed driving through the mountains of Chama with his grandsons from California. As a successful entrepreneur, Arnold owned and operated his own construction business for over 45 years, taking great pride in working with his sons and grandson. 

He had a passion for arts and crafts, particularly in building things, especially hot rods and fast classic cars. Arnold's love extended to his pets Boomie, Baby, Peanut, Lucy, Teddy B., and Sophie. He always displayed a strong sense of family pride, particularly in his sons and nephews. 

Arnold is survived by his wife, Marcia L. Romero; his children Joseph (Vanessa) Arnold Sanchez Jr., Wayne Sanchez, James Sanchez Sr., and Teresa Valdez; his grandchildren James J. Sanchez, Nicole (Timothy) Sanchez-Nelson, James A. Sanchez Jr., Adrian A. Sanchez, Mario A. Sanchez; and his great-granddaughter, Harmony Nelson. He is also survived by his sister, Diane (Steven) Montano, and his nephews Steve Montano, Mario Montano, Daniel Montano, Bonifacio, and niece Bianca Sanchez. 

Arnold was preceded in death by his father Bonifacio, mother Cleofas, brothers James and Vernon Sanchez and his daughter Andrea Chavez. 

Arnold will be remembered as a self-made man who dedicated his life to his family, friends, and passions. Services for Joe will be held at the Chama Catholic Church in Chama, Colo., with a rosary on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025, at 7 p.m. with the Mass of Resurrection to be held on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at 12 p.m. also at the Chama Catholic Church with interment to follow at the Chama Cemetery. 

The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa. To leave online condolences, please visit www.RomeroFuneralHomes.com.