James Sanchez
James G. Sanchez, 69, of La Crosse, WI died unexpectedly at home Saturday, March 24. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services. A celebration of life will be held from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, March 29 at All Star Lanes in La Crosse, WI. Memorials are preferred to Causeway Caregivers. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.
Sanch was born in Waukon May 27, 1948 to Gertrude Gretchen (Ferring) and Gilbert Sanchez. He grew up in Lansing, where he was fortunate to acquire many lifelong friends. He attended St. George and Kee High Schools, Mason City Junior College and La Crosse State.
Sanch married Rita Mauss at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Albin November 1, 1969. He worked at Norplex and later Crown Cork and Seal, retiring after 38 years of service. (It has been said that they needed to hire three men to replace him.)
Sanch enjoyed watching most sports, especially the Packers, Hawkeyes and Brewers. He was an avid squirrel hunter and took many trips to the Iowa woods, often stopping for refreshments afterwards.
He took special pride in his grandchildren and often surprised them with unique gifts that they will always treasure. Sanch passed on to his sons and grandchildren the importance of a good work ethic and the talent to play a good game of euchre. He was a devoted son who always attended his mother’s needs, and she always called him “My Jimmy”. He was a special hit with the Thornton Manor bingo group.
Jim is survived by his wife, Rita, of 48 years; his sons, John (Kris) and their children, Thomas and Emily, of Onalaska, WI, and Tony (Heather) and their children, McKayla and Sammy, of Temecula, CA; his sister, Mary Howard of Menomonie, WI; his half-brothers, Roger and Randy, and half-sister, Vickie, all of Albuquerque, NM; his aunt, Margaret Ferring of Lansing; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents; his parents; his in-laws, Bernard and Lucille Mauss; his brothers-in-law, David Mauss, Jim Benson and Jim Wellendorf; his half-brother, Rick; and his uncles, Paul (Edith) and Bob Ferring.
