Julio Antonio Sanchez

Julio Antonio Alejandro Del Carmelo Sanchez Hernandez, a fitting name for a man larger than life. On March 18th, 2022, the heavens asked him to return so he could fix the mold that broke when they made him. Julio: beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all (unless you are a deer or a squirrel) lived an extraordinary life. To say he will be missed by his wife of 44 years, Maria; his 3 children; Judith, Fayna, and Alexander; and his grandson Gavyn; is the understatement of a lifetime.

People say, "You can't be good at everything." Well, you never met our dad. Julio, who was born in The Canary Islands, Spain was an elite athlete; winning gold in the Spanish National Championships for kayaking. He was smart enough to teach himself English and then Engineering, and yet cool enough to be the life of any party. He commanded whatever space he was in with his quick-witted comedy chops that could win over anyone he came in contact with, and yes, maybe a dirty joke or two.

On top of those things, he remained soft and warm; sensitive enough that The Bee Gees could bring a tear to his eye. Oh, how he loved music and playing guitar, and looked forward to jamming with all the rock legends in heaven, specifically Hendrix. He took great pride in preparing food for his family and friends. Meticulous and deliberate. From planting each seed in his garden to sprinkling the final touch on each meal he made, you could taste the love and artistry in every bite. He's known for his hot sauce that (much like him) is bold, spicy, and something you can't get enough of.

He loved the wilderness and being outside; a lifelong hunter and fisherman with deep respect for Mother Nature and admiration for all that she provides. He was the hardest working person we've ever known. Thirty years at Honda of America earned him multiple awards, promotions, and a legacy all his own. And to top it all off? Good lord was he handsome!

Julio's final days were spent surrounded by his family, as stubborn and loyal as he was, unwilling to leave his side. We laughed, cried, and loved. He is now at peace, no doubt enjoying his lottery winnings and building his perfect home so that we may all join him in the future.

A Memorial Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Julio's name to the Cancer Research Institute, at https://fundraise.cancerresearch.org/JulioSanchez so that hopefully one day we can find a cure. And finally, in Julio's memory, remember to laugh and love everyday. The family has entrusted Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services to handle the arrangements.