Dennis J. Sanchez

Dennis John Sanchez, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away peacefully on Monday September 2nd, 2024, at the age of 89.

Dennis was born to Sidonia and Refugio Sanchez on October 9th, 1934. Born and raised in Kings County, Dennis was number seven of nine siblings. From an early age Dennis worked in agriculture alongside his father and brothers. His family moved from the Laton area to the Kings River Hardwick area and eventually settled in Hanford, California.

Dennis graduated from Hanford High School in 1953. He served in the U.S. Army at Fort Benning, Georgia and continued with the National Guard while attending college at Cal Poly Pomona. During his early college years, Dennis was introduced to Raulina Simoes, a close friend of his sister Sara. They began their courtship, and it wasn’t long before the two fell in love and were married. Dennis and Raulina welcomed four children while building their business and life together.

Some would say Dennis was quite a character and never afraid to take a risk. At a young age, Dennis was inspired by his FFA Dairy project to partner with his brothers and start a dairy operation. With limited resources and a small amount of acreage, Dennis began expanding and diversifying. With the support of his family, many of those endeavors are still operating today.

Dennis had a deep love for travel, exploring many corners of the world throughout his life. Some of his most cherished journeys included a trip to France with his grandson, and visits to iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal and The Great Wall of China. Always combining his curiosity about local business practices with a genuine appreciation for different cultures.

Dennis’s love for sports was just as strong and watching his grandsons play football was definitely a highlight. He loved supporting the Raiders and attended a few Super Bowl games with his sons. He was a passionate supporter of Fresno State, always cheering them on, his commitment to his community was evident, not only through his love of sports but also in his tireless involvement in local efforts. He served on the California State Fair Board, Hanford City Council, and various Agricultural and Community committees, always ready for a healthy debate, especially when it came to politics.

Despite facing numerous serious health challenges, Dennis’s positive fiery spirit and unwavering faith in the Lord remained his constant. His resilience and optimism touched everyone around him, and his legacy of service and passion continues to inspire.

His loving memory will live on in his children, Gregory Sanchez (Barbara), Denise Hansen-Gilkey (Kirk), Tim Sanchez (Tami), Fran Martin (Chad). Grandchildren, Derek and Meghen Sanchez (Gregory), Bronte Castro (Denise), Dustin, Cannon and Brayden Sanchez (Tim), Tess, Taryn, Taylor Nissen, Lee and Luke Martin (Fran). Great Grandchildren: Colton, Connor, Baylor, Quinten, Lena, Riley and Orion. Number eight on the way. His surviving siblings; Mary Grajeda, Ruth Lopez, Peter Sanchez and Sara Nunez.  In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by his spouse Melanie Baker, and her children; Justin (Jennifer) Baker (Clint & Dean), Jamie (John) Thompson (Max & Ethan), and Mark Bartkus.

He is preceded in death by his parents; former wife Raulina Sanchez, Siblings; Nikki Garrone (Leon), Joe Sanchez (Rita), Aurora Sepeda (Fred), Sally Meraz (Rudy), brother in laws, Richard Grajeda, Manuel Lopez and Manuel Nunez.

Dennis will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his strong work ethic, and his dedication to his community. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, kindness and service.

Services provided by Whitehurst McNamara Funeral Home; 100 W. Bush Street, Hanford, Ca.  Rosary Friday October 18th, 2024, 6pm. Funeral Mass and burial Saturday October 19th, at 9am, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 10435 W. Hanford Armona Rd., Hanford, Ca. with gravesite services following at Calvary Cemetery 11680 s. 10th Ave., Hanford, Ca.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Dennis J Sanchez, c/o Nazareth House Fresno. 2121 N. 1st St., Fresno, Ca. 93703 Or your favorite charity.

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