Napoleon Sanchez, 86, a resident of Arenas Valley, NM went home on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at Fort Bayard Medical Center. He was born June 3, 1932 in Gila, NM to Hermila Sanchez Polanco. He was the youngest of eight siblings. Napo was the only remaining sibling. His deceased siblings were Manuel Sanchez, Josephina Medina, Beatrice Mata, Soledad Santa Maria, Crestina Ponce, Elena Garcia and Concha Mesa. Napo proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After returning home, he attended Western New Mexico University and completed a B.A. degree in History. He was a member of the WNMU cross country team and received recognition for his competiveness and special ability. For many years Napo delivered for Schadel’s Bakery. He also worked for the city as a meterman, dispatcher, and grounds keeper of the baseball fields and golf course.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 27 from 8:15 - 9 a.m. at St. Francis Newman Center. The holy rosary being recited by Dr. Gilbert Arizaga will begin at 9am. The funeral liturgy will follow at 9:30am with Father Ezenwelem Bartholomew officiating. Concluding service and interment will follow with full military honors at Fort Bayard National Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Eddie Joe Torrez, Dr. Richard Rodriguez, Alfonzo Santa Maria, Alfonso Santa Maria Jr., Albert and Bobby Salaiz, Ernie Gomez, and Mike Mendoza, and Jody Santa Maria. Honorary pallbearers will be all of his nieces and nephews. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.