Andres Mendoza Saenz, age 85, passed away on March 20, 2026, in Grand Junction, Colorado. Born in Ejido Hernández Jovales, Mexico, Andres built a life rooted in hard work, humility, and deep love for his family and community.

Throughout his life, Andres worked in restaurants, gas stations, and most proudly as a cowboy — a role that reflected his strength, resilience, and connection to the land. No matter where he worked, he was known for lending a hand, offering a smile, and treating everyone with kindness.

Andres also spent many afternoons at Ray’s Tavern, where he enjoyed watching his favorite sport — baseball. It was one of the places he felt at home. When things got busy, he didn’t hesitate to jump in and help with the dishes, just as naturally as he helped people everywhere else in his life. That was who he was: someone who never stood by when he could be useful.

Family was the center of Andres’s world. He loved being surrounded by his children and grandchildren, supporting them in every way he could. Whether it was basketball games, baseball games, school events, or community gatherings, he never missed a chance to be there. His steady presence in the stands, cheering with pride, became a familiar comfort to everyone who loved him.

People will remember Andres for his stories, his laughter, and the warmth he brought into every room. He was a loyal supporter of Green River High School sports and a beloved figure throughout the town. His generosity, his gentle humor, and his unwavering support made him someone the whole community looked up to.

Andres was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lidia Mendoza Trevizo, who passed away on May 6, 2012. Their love was the foundation of their family, and Andres carried her memory with him every day.

He is survived by his children: Arturo Mendoza, Virgilio Mendoza, Alicia Mendoza, and Raul Mendoza; as well as the many grandchildren he helped raise with endless love, patience, and pride. Andres dedicated his life to his family, making sure every grandchild felt seen, supported, and celebrated. His love shaped them, and his guidance will continue to live in each of their hearts.

Andres Mendoza Saenz leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and quiet heroism. His impact will continue to echo through his family, the town of Green River, and all who were blessed to know him.

A Message From His Children and Grandchildren:

“Take this with you to heaven, Grandpa:
Thank you for loving us the way you did.
Thank you for raising us, guiding us, and never missing a moment of our lives.
On your last day, you waited for all of us — your children and your grandchildren — to gather around you.
You held on until every one of us was there, just so you could say goodbye and tell us you loved us.
We’re grateful we had the chance to tell you how much we love you too.
We will carry the love we shared in that room for the rest of our lives.
Rest with Grandma now. We’ll keep making you proud.”

Funeral Mass, Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 12:00 noon, St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Mission (40 North Long Street) in Green River, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Committal Service, Elgin Cemetery, Green River, Utah.

Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Andres online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.