Our beloved mother, grandmother, and friend too all, Christina “Tina” Valdez Sanchez, 93, passed away at her home on December 26, 2018.
She was born October 15, 1925 in Velarde, New Mexico to Miguel Gomez and Crestina Lopez. Christina was raised by Tranquilino “Joe” Valdez who was a very instrumental part of her life. She grew up in New Mexico and moved to Helper in 1941 where she met Fidel Ontiveros Sanchez. They were married on October 15, 1942 in Raton, New Mexico and blessed with an incredible family. Fidel preceded her in death on May 2, 2003.
Tina was an active member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Helper where she was instrumental in caring for numerous capacities within her church. She was a Eucharistic Minister, member of the Altar Society, Spanish Choir, and involved in numerous carnivals, dinners and church fundraisers. Christina spent countless hours working alongside her husband and maintaining their second home (St. Anthony Catholic Church). Her life was devoted to her family, church and a community of friends whom she loved dearly.
She was a tireless worker who believed in hard work and providing the best for her family. Christina made sure that all of her children received their education at Notre Dame Regional School in Price. Tina was involved in her community and was an Election Judge for many years. She loved everyone equally, whether it was her children, grandchildren or friends, everyone was welcomed into her family. Her door was open to all and she made sure that everyone had something to eat. She was an excellent cook who was known for her famous Tortillas, Frijoles, Beans and delicious pastries. Christina had a very positive outlook on life and her smile could brighten anyone’s day.
She is survived by her loving family, Elaine Smith, New Smyrna Beach, FL, Joseph Sanchez, Helper, John (Connie) Sanchez, LA Grande, OR, Fred (Sheila) Sanchez, Kenilworth, T. Patrick (Alicia) Sanchez, Gig Harbor, WA, Anthony (Raeleen) Sanchez, Taylorsville, Geralyn (Randy) Roberts, Kearns, UT, Marie Sanchez, Gig Harbor, WA, Felipe (Renee) Sanchez, West Jordan; 33 grandchildren, 67 great-grandchildren (plus 3 on the way) and 13 great-great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way).
Tina was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Fidel; infant sons, Felipe Pedro and Michael G. Sanchez; daughter, Rose Holt; grandson, Frankie Ray Sanchez; great-granddaughter, Faith Sanchez; brothers, Jose and Miguel Gomez; and daughter-in-law, Frances Sanchez.
Funeral Mass, Monday, December 31, 2018, 10:00 a.m., St. Anthony Catholic Church. Vigil service, Sunday evening 7:00 p.m. at the church in Helper. Family will receive friends at the church Sunday and Monday one hour prior to services. Committal service, Mt. View Cemetery, Helper. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price where family and friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Tina online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net