August 10, 1948 – December 22, 2024
Armando “Mando” Sanchez, 76, of Natalia, Texas, passed away on December 22, 2024, after a short illness.
Born on August 10, 1948, in San Antonio, Texas, Mando was the third of five children born to Edward and Daria Sanchez. Growing up, Mando was known for his mischievous spirit, sense of humor, and love of nature. Even as a child, Mando was loving and protective, always looking out for his younger siblings and cousins, creating bonds that lasted a lifetime.
After graduating from high school, Mando joined the United States Navy. He served with honor during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968, stationed aboard the USS Hector and USS Mark. He left the Navy in 1971 as a Petty Officer 2nd Class with an honorable discharge, reflecting his commitment and service.
Mando had a passion for reading and storytelling. He found great enjoyment in the works of Larry McMurtry, James Michener, and Cormac McCarthy and still read the newspaper in its entirety every day. He had a lifelong love of fishing, whether casting a line in freshwater lakes or along the saltwater shores he loved so much. His favorite place to be was the beach, especially Charlie’s Pasture in Port Aransas, where he found peace and connection to nature.
Mando is survived by his daughters, Jessica Sanchez and Kristen Solis (and her husband, Dean); his siblings, Robert Sanchez, Anna Sanchez, and Andrew Sanchez; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who adored him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward Sr. and Daria Sanchez, and his brother, Edward Jr.
A celebration of Mando’s life will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Angelus Funeral Home, 1119 N. St. Mary’s. He will be cremated and laid to rest with military honors at Fort Sam National Cemetery on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 9:45 a.m.
Mando will be remembered for his quick wit, enduring patience, unshakable loyalty, and the kindness and warmth he brought to every relationship. He taught his family the value of hard work, the importance of laughter, and the beauty found in life’s simplest moments. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.