Robert "Bob" James Sanchez, 74, of Gilroy, California, passed away on Thursday, January 30,, 2014, at St. Louise Hospital. Born in San Jose to Frank and Francis Sanchez, he lived most of his life in the Santa Clara valley.

Bob was crazy about sports, and spent many happy hours participating, coaching, officiating at the college level, and proudly cheering at (and occasionally getting kicked out of) his children's and grandchildren's games. His professional career was spent in the Aerospace industry with government defense and national security programs. A 24 year veteran of the United States Marine Corps Reserves, he retired as a Chief Warrant Officer III. Bob's pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his five children: Paula Sanchez, Joseph Sanchez and wife Natasha, Michelle Moore and husband Patrick, Robert Sanchez and wife Patty, and Matthew Sanchez and wife Stephanie; nine grandchildren; and loving wife of 54 years – his "beautiful lady" – Annette.

A visitation will begin at 1:00pm Monday, February 3 followed by a Vigil Service at 7:00pm both at Habing Family Funeral Home, Gilroy. Funeral Mass will begin 10:00am Tuesday, February 4 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Gilroy; burial will follow at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Bob's name to "Gavilan Men's Baseball" at 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd. Gilroy, CA 95020.