Fernando Sanchez, Jr., 84, of Pampa, Texas, formerly of El Paso, passed peacefully from this life in the quiet stillness of his home on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. He was born on October 22, 1941, in El Paso, Texas, one of five children born to Fernando Sanchez, Sr. and Carmen Sanchez.
After graduating from El Paso High School, Fernando enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he completed specialized training in Detroit, Michigan, and became a mechanical engineer. Throughout his career, Fernando worked both independently and as a contract laborer for various companies. His skill and expertise took him across the world, including to the Andes Mountains, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru. Whenever possible, he brought his family along on those journeys, giving them the gift of experiencing new cultures and broadening their horizons.
Fernando loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping and hunting. Whether hunting wild boar, deer, or simply spending time in nature, he embraced the sport and the peace it brought him. He also enjoyed caring for and riding horses. Among his many passions were race cars and sprint cars, which he and his brother built together and proudly raced.
Fernando will be remembered as easygoing, kindhearted, and deeply devoted to his family. He was a loving father and an even more devoted husband, loving Hilda with all his heart and cherishing every moment spent with his children. His warm smile, gentle spirit, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.
Fernando was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hilda; his parents, Fernando Sanchez, Sr. and Carmen Sanchez; an infant son, Eulises Sanchez; his brother, Reney Sanchez; and his sister, Elizabeth.
Those left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his three children, Russell Sanchez of Pampa, Janet Medrano and husband Carmelo of Lubbock, and Nancy Sanchez of El Paso; his brother, Richard Sanchez and wife Mary Ann of El Paso; his sister, Bonnie Sanchez of El Paso; five grandchildren, Russell Sanchez, Jr., Isabell Hurtado, Kathryn Jimenez, Ashley Jimenez, and J. Monic Valenzuela; eight great-grandchildren, AJ Apodaca, Ryan Apodaca, Kelly Apodaca, Evelyn Prendiz, Destiny Prendiz, Amari Gatewood, Liam Gatewood, and Gisselle Gatewood; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
Fernando will be available for viewing on Tuesday, July 14, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Funeraria del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave., El Paso, Texas.
A Celebration of Life graveside service is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, where military honors will be presented. The family has entrusted the care of their loved one to Winegeart Funeral Home.
To express condolences or share words of comfort with the family through Fernando’s Book of Memories, please visit www.winegeartfuneral.com.
