Donald Wilfred "Uncle Don" Sanchez

Donald W. "Uncle Don" Sanchez, 73, of Cheyenne, died on January 30, 2021 in Cheyenne.
He was born on December 11, 1947 in Chama, Colorado.
Don was an auto body expert and started his own business in 1987, Uncle Don's Auto Body, and owned the business for 18 years. The decision to name the shop was influenced by the connections he built with people who called him Uncle Don regardless of their relationship.
Don was involved in apprenticeships and mentoring students from Youth Alternatives. But not only did he teach students, he shared his knowledge with other people who came to the Shop for help.
Don took a lot of pride in his work and was considered to be one of the best auto body repairmen in town.
He enjoyed hunting, camping and fishing with his family and friends. He was a master metal craftsman and made artwork from car hoods. He also enjoyed tying flies for his family and made jewelry for the ladies.
He founded the Good Friday Fishing Club to keep his male friends close and their relationships strong.
He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Sanchez (Richard Garcia), Vicky (Vince) Penaflor and Dawn (Warren) Moeller; granddaughters, Kerrie Puente, Casandra (Joseph) Morelli, Katrina Puente, Devyn Penaflor, Marissa Penaflor; and great-granddaughter, Gabriella Morelli; brothers, Ernie Vialpando, William Sanchez, Joseph (Shirley) Sanchez; sister; Dorothy Martinez; and numerous sisters-in-law and brothers in law, and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Evelyn Sanchez; grandson, Frankie Puente; parents, William and Maggie Sanchez; sister, Ruth Elma Mascarenas; brother, Eddie Vialpando; and sister, Mary Martinez.
Visitation will be Monday, 9-7, at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel.
Private family Vigil for the Deceased and Funeral Liturgy will be at St. Mary's Cathedral.
Due to COVID restrictions both services at St Mary's will be limited to immediate family only. We will be having a reception for anyone to attend at the Eagles Lodge, Wednesday, 1:00 p.m. Feel free to wear Denver Bronco attire.