John Michael Sanchez

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, opa, brother, and friend, John Michael Sanchez.
A man known for his friendliness, generosity, intelligence, and charm, John passed away peacefully at his home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on June 11, 2024, at the age of 77. His ever-present smile and terrific sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
John was born on December 16, 1946, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Marcelino and Mary Sanchez. He graduated from Central High School in Omaha in 1965 and began his career with Union Pacific Railroad soon after.
In addition to his diligent 37-year allegiance to the railroad, John and his wife, Maria Barbara Sanchez, co-owned A Step Ahead Salon for 38 years. Together, they built not only a business but an enduring legacy of hard work, dedication, and community spirit.
John’s greatest joy in life was his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Maria Barbara Sanchez, and their four children: Lisa (Tony) Lowham of Lander, Wyoming; Debbie (Thom) Niedergerke of Cherry Hills Village, Colorado; Mike Sanchez of Lander, Wyoming; and Christina (Uriah) Mills of Krabi, Thailand. He was a proud grandfather (“opa”) to eight grandchildren: Noah Lowham, Eli Lowham, Gabriel Lowham, Dominic Lowham, Mikel Niedergerke, Johan Niedergerke, Juniper Mills, and Neptune Mills, and one great-grandchild, Rahm Lowham. John was the beloved brother of James Sanchez of Ohio, Kathy (Stu) Lauver of Nebraska, Rick (Suzanne) Sanchez of Colorado, and Mark (Michelle) Sanchez of South Carolina.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Marcelino and Mary Sanchez, and his daughter-in- law, Chantel Bowen-Sanchez.
John’s family and friends were the cornerstone of his happiness. The time he spent making memories and traveling with his loved ones shaped his rich and fulfilling life. At the end of his life, John found great peace and a deepened faith, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of love and laughter.
John Michael Sanchez’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His memory will be cherished by his family and friends who will always remember his kind and generous nature. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and light he so freely shared with the world.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.