Elpedio “Pete” G. Sanchez, passed away on May 28, 2021, in Peoria, AZ. Pete was born in Superior, AZ, on May 9, 1928, to Gumercindo and Mariana Sanchez.
Pete is survived by his daughter Elaine McCall (Ron), five sons, Mark, Gary, Kevin (Kathy), Edward (Marget), and Robert, brother Carlos Sanchez, 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Alice Sanchez, his parents, Gumercindo and Mariana Sanchez, brother Bernard Sanchez and sisters Lucy and Carlotta Sanchez.
Pete graduated from ASU and received a degree in Business Administration/Management in 1953. He worked for more than 39 years with the Arizona Air Force National Guard serving as the state’s comptroller and retired with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.
Pete was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. During his life he enjoyed coaching Little League baseball, camping, fishing, and traveling. One of his passions was attending ASU football games, including attending every ASU home game for more than sixty years. One of the fondest moments that his children and grandchildren shared were on visits to Oak Creek Canyon where he would shake the steering wheel while crossing the notorious shaking bridge.
He was the funniest, kindest, and gentlest man who only knew how to love unconditionally. We were all truly blessed to have had him all these years, and he will be deeply missed by his family, and all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the charity of your choice.
On Tuesday, June 8, 2021, a Visitation will be held from 4:30 – 7:00 PM with a Rosary at 6:30 PM at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd, in Phoenix.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at 11:00 AM at St. Louis the King Catholic Church, 4331 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale. Interment to follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street, in Phoenix. Condolences and Hugs from Home may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Joanne Tillson
To the Sanchez family, we offer our condolences in your loss. We remember Pete, our cousin, with fondness. He was always nice, funny and fun. Mom is recovering from an illness and we won’t be able to attend the services, but we will keep the family in out thoughts and prayers
All our love,
Margaret Angulo and Joanne Tillson
Paul Valderrama
To the Sanchez family, our condolences. We went to the ASU football games also. Pete coached us in baseball. I could never outrun Pete, he was fast. God bless Paul & Janet Valderrama.