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Jonathan Sanchez Obituary

JONATHAN C. SANCHEZ MAY 30, 1987 - SEP 24, 2010 Jonathan Christopher Sanchez, beloved son, brother, mentor, and friend, was called to heaven on September 24, 2010. He was born in Turlock where he lived with his family and made countless friends. He is survived by his parents, Balberto and Natalie Sanchez; siblings, Joseph, Bianca, and Eryk Sanchez; grandparents, Jose Cruz and Hijinia Maldonado, and Balberto and Carmen Sanchez, all of Turlock; as well as countless aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ.As a young child, Jonathan had an infectiously warm smile and a kind, generous heart, qualities that he continued to display as a young adult. He, with his family, was a member of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Turlock, where Jonathan developed at a very early age a deep love for Christ and desire to serve the Church. After graduating from Turlock High School, and completing one year of college, Jonathan joined NET ministries based in St. Paul, MN and spent a year traveling the country bringing the Catholic faith to teens and young people. Back home in Turlock, he served Christ every day, as a Core Team member for Life Teen, a member of the Young Adult Teams of our Lady, a founder and leader of ARMEE ministries, and a light to everyone around him. Jonathan never missed an opportunity to give of himself to others. He did God's work always, and loved all others in His name. He humbly allowed his own life to serve as a reminder to others that we must always strive toward holiness. All those who loved him and knew him will miss him dearly. We will miss the sound of sweet music coming from his guitar, his warm embrace, his infectious smile, his listening ear, and his helping heart. But it seems his work here was done. Jesus and our Blessed Mother have called Jonathan home. Saint Jonathan Christopher Sanchez, please pray for us now. Visitation will be Thursday, 9/30 from 5-7pm with Rosary following at 7pm at Turlock Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Service will be Friday 10/01 at 10am at Our Lady of Assumption Church. Donations can be made towards the costs of the funeral/cemetery for Jonathan at Turlock Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist Rd. www.modbee.com/obituaries

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Published by Modesto Bee from Sep. 28 to Sep. 29, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Sanchez

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October 5, 2010

Jonathan was a stand up guy some one who could encourage and pick you up no matter how bad you thought things were he'll always be missed dearly. Hearts go out to the family in this time of sorrow.

Familia Maldonado

October 4, 2010

God Bless You little brother!

October 3, 2010

Although,we haven't known each other too long,we express our deepest prayers to our loss of a friend,a smiling face&a devoted follower of Christ.May God bless you,&bring you home.
~Angel&Cristina&Diana Garcia

Chelsey Carver-James

October 3, 2010

Dear Jonathan, I'm not sure I ever told you how much you inspired me, or how you were exactly the friend I needed at a certain points of my life. I will always think back on you with such sweet and fond memories. I found all our old pictures and that adorable song you wrote me and I will cherish them always. You represent a time in my life that was much simpler, and I wouldn't be who I am today if you hadn't played your part. You inspired me- how you chose to live your life, and you have inspired me also in your passing. You touched more lives in 23 years than most people do in 80. You lived your life well- and I can't think of any other way to put it. You came to earth and did just what we were made to do, its just so sad for us all that you did your job SO well that you finished young. I remember every time I saw you I would tell you to get your butt back to college. You would always say that you knew what God wanted in your life. I would always tell you: "No he doesn't! He gave you all those brains because he wants you to be a doctor!"� Wow... looking back now my big mouth is speechless. You knew exactly what you were supposed to be doing here- and most middle-aged people are still trying to figure that out. I'm so thankful I was able to see you that last time to tell you thank you for singing at my grandma and uncle's funerals. In your moms own words: "our work starts now, so that we may be with you again. Your legacy will- no doubt- live way, way, beyond your short years here. You were always such an angel on earth and now there's no doubt you're an angel in Heaven. Rest in peace sweet Jonathan... until we meet again.

Yasmine Andrawis

October 2, 2010

I have faint memories of Jonathan from when he helped with ministry at St. Peter and St. Paul... he is a beautiful angel that did what he needed to get done on earth to get to Heaven to be with his One and Only Father. I pray that his family finds the peace they need and I pray that Jonathan watches over all of us... keep singing in Heaven, Jonathan.

Teresa Webb

October 1, 2010

Johnathan will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He was a remarkable, very talented young man who showed his love of God through his voice and his actions. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who knew him and will miss him.

October 1, 2010

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Ana

October 1, 2010

Jonathan you will be missed by many but I do believe you are going to watch over all of us and as we pray for you, you are going to be praying for us all.

Kaitlyn Gricar

October 1, 2010

I feel so blessed to have known Jonathan during the time he was at St. Peter and St. Paul church. His work in the youth ministry programs has always been a great example for myself and was such a Christ-light for the youth; I'm not sure if I would've been so strong in my faith if not for him. His welcoming attitude and kindness always lifted my spirits every Sunday at Life Teen band practices, and because of his warm smile, patience, easy laughter and silly bear hugs I'll always remember him with love and compassion. My deepest condolences to his family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss.

Tom Lombardo

October 1, 2010

Jonathan was a rare, young man who had a passion for life and respect for all. He was a delight to have as a student. Thank you for raising such a man as this for such a time as this. God Bless.
Peace,

Lety & David Kenny

October 1, 2010

We were shocked to hear of Jonathan death. jonathan and a few of his NET team brothers stayed at our house when they were in the Milwaukee Archdiocese. Although he was only with us a few days, he made such an impression on us. Our prayers go out to his parents and family and also to his NET teammembers. Thank you Jonathan for answering the call to serve Christ. Pray for us St. Jonathan

October 1, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Alejandra Rodriguez

October 1, 2010

"For the man who follows Jesus, all the days of his life, who picks up his cross and walks with his God. What a GLORIOUS inheritance awaits him at the end...." Eternal happiness granted unto you Jonathan!

Rodrigo And Catie Flores

October 1, 2010

You have made your parents and Our Father proud; you have work hard for his kingdom--- enjoy your eternal rest with our Papa. Pray for your family and the rest of us who still morn but rejoice too--- you are missed my brother in Christ.

October 1, 2010

My deepiest sympathy to the family and his brother Eryk.So So Sorry for your loss.

Robin Torres

October 1, 2010

I am glad that my family had the pleasure of meeting Jonathan. We only knew him for a short while, but he was a blessing to everyone he met. He was a very pure hearted person and he let his light shine. His love for the Lord was contagious and when he sang you could feel the deep love he had for the Lord.
My prayers are with his family and loved ones.

Kathy Barrale

September 30, 2010

My heart truely goes out to all family and loved ones left here to grieve our loss. Jonathon was such an awesome person and example to us all. He will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. My prayers are with the family.

September 30, 2010

Bert, Nathalie and family,
We are so terribly sorry for your loss. You will all be in our prayers.
Paul and Shirley Villarreal and family

Joe & Nilda Pinheiro

September 30, 2010

We would like to express our sincerest condolences to the Sanchez familiy for the loss of your beloved son.May GOD be with your family in this time of sorrow.

September 30, 2010

Sanchez family we just wanted to express our deepest sympathy in your loss, there's no words to express - he was a wonderful young man, that any mom would be pleased to have their daughter go out with because we knew she was safe. May God bless you and the rest of us with another ANGEL, Manuel & Goretty Oliveira and Family

Juliet Perry

September 30, 2010

To The Family of Jonathan,
I was lucky enough to have met your son, Through my neice Chelsey. What an amazing person. I was so saddened for your loss. Thinking how much he had done for my family 6 months ago when he came to help out at my Grandmas funeral and then again at my husbands only 3 weeks later. I was already having such a hard time on September 24th witch was my husbands Birthday and was with Chelsey that day when she got the news about Jonathan all our hearts broke for his family. I said what a blessing God had put on this earth if only for such a short time. God must have needed another Saint in heaven. Your son was truley a saint. My prayers are with your family and I pray that God will comfort you.

Stephanie Avila

September 30, 2010

Natalie and family I was saddened to hear about Jonathon. I am out of the state right now and am not able to attend the services. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Words cannot express my sorrow.

lucy navas

September 30, 2010

Johathan you will be missed...Love you my Brother in Christ...thanks for those lovely melodies you played for us at youth group and ARMEE and for just being you....love you! Lucy

Jennifer Ensley

September 30, 2010

Natalie and Family, Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for you all. I did not know Jonathan personally, but all of your children are exceptional people. I have read the obituary and the tributes here and can see that Jonathan was truly an inspirational and wonderful young man. He reflects the teachings and love of all of you. May you find strength in happy memories and knowledge of all the good that he did and joy he spread. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.

Mike&Sandy Rubio

September 29, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Terry Gonzales

September 29, 2010

I did not know your son personally, just through his wonderful music and faith in Jesus Christ. I started attending OLA about eight years ago and was very impressed by your son Jonathan and through the years your other children. I have always admired your family from afar. I cannot imagine losing a child, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. May your faith carry you through the rough times that are yet to come.

ed

September 29, 2010

how rare it is in these days to find a young man with a deep sense for God. the lost of a love one is deep but the we can rejoice in the words spoken by our savior Jesus in John5:28,29 when he said there will be a resurreccion of rightious ones. what a wonderful day it will be recieving Jonathan from his long sleep.

Adriana Larios Kennedy

September 29, 2010

I didnt know Jonathan, but my brothers, Christopher and Andres did, as well as my mom Ruth Larios. I heard about this and felt a great sadness come over me, because I think of the things that he will miss in this lifetime. But then I realize that he is experiencing happiness we can only dream of! I know Jonathan was a great human being because I feel as if I knew him, yet I didnt, which proves to me that he must have been great. To have someone not even know you, but still feel touched by you-must have been an amazing person! My brother wrote a beautiful tribute to Jonathan in his last letter and I echo my mothers comment from Andres. He loved you, and so did my brother Christopher!I pray for the familia & friends of Jonathan to feel comfort in knowing he is in a better place

Barajas

September 29, 2010

I will always remember Jonathan's fervent desire to bring Christ to anyone and everyone. He was a Man after God's own heart. He loved Christ the way He knew how and that brought out a more perfect version of who God called him to be. Jonathan was a great, loving,joyful, be yourself example to me. I am praying for you Sanchez family and friends of Jonthan for your greiving hearts. I also praise God for another saint to pray for us here below and having had the gift to meet an amazing soul.

Ornelas Family

September 29, 2010

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Aaron Smith

September 29, 2010

Jonathan was a great man of God! He loved people and God so much! He really impacted countless lives, including mine! I pray that the family would find peace during time. I'm so sorry for the loss.

Kayla Coriaty

September 29, 2010

Jonathan was an amazing and inspiring friend and brother in Christ. I can't believe that he has left us but I know that he will be doing incredible things in Heaven with the Lord. To the Sanchez family: Thank you for sharing your wonderful son and brother with all of us. I know him from his time at St. Peter and St. Paul in Alta Loma and I feel so blessed to have known him. I will never forget his smile, his ability to always be there for others, and his always welcome and caring advice. He was there for so many teens and changed so many lives. You are all in my prayers. May God give you strength during this difficult time.

Jaimarie Davis

September 28, 2010

I am in complete shock of what I just found out. I can't believe that such a wonderful, loving, and spiritual man such as Jonathan has been called home at such a early age. I will miss his smiles and just talking to him. I have his family in my prayers. R.I.P. Jonathan and we will meet again.

Ben Culala

September 28, 2010

Dear Balberto, Natalie, and family....I have been blessed with the joy of knowing and teaching you children and you Natalie. Johnathan was a shining light in the midst of the maddness that is going on all around us. He was such a reflection of the love you have shared and sacrificed to set them on the right course....we had shared a moment similar to this a few years ago and I saw the pain you felt even though it was pretend. Well he is really with God now, in his heavenly Choir and praying for God healing presence to wash away yours...My families Love and prayers to you...Ben Culala and family

Katie Mahoney

September 28, 2010

I met Jonathan on our interview weekend for NET, and he immediately struck me as someone completely and utterly in love with Christ. I'm so grateful that he was a part of my life, even if it was for a little bit.

God bless you Sanchez family, my prayers, and the prayers of my family are with you.

Farris Family

September 28, 2010

we will miss you John and all the the time we spent with you this year at New life church in Riverbank you brought worship to my Family through your Music That we will miss the most. we send our love to you the Family we are here for you you never have to go thew this alone
May the lord be with you...
Doni (Johns baseplayer) Melissa,Joseph casey Bailey Mark

Angelina Maldonado

September 28, 2010

Jonathan ima miss u alot cousin.. i still cant believe that your gone.. your our guarding angel know.. and always be in our hearts.. one day we will meet again.. love u and rest in peace..

Ruth Larios

September 28, 2010

Words seem so hollow to express how truly amazing Jonathan is. He played an important role in the lives of so many but especially in the life of my son. Passing the "cape" on to Christopher was one of the highlights of his life. It meant so much to him to be regarded so highly by one he held on a pedestal. That cape has come to mean so much in our family and cross country. Turlock lost one of it's finest sons when we lost Jonathan. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn his passing familia Sanchez.Be assured that you will see him again and be reunited. He is watching over you from heaven and waiting for that gran reunion you will all have. I am grateful I had the opportunity to know him and I am also grateful for the friendships all of you have with my sons. Andres sends his love and condolences from Mexico and wants you to know his thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely la familia Larios

Michele James

September 28, 2010

Dear Sanchez Family,
Thank you for sharing your son and brother with this world and thank you for being such wonderful people. Being a single parent in this town has not always been easy, but your family has always been so gracious to mine. For your kindeness I am forever grateful. The unconditional Love and Faith you taught your son showed to all blessed to meet him. He was a true and loyal friend to my daughter Chelsey. When my own family suffered two losses in less than three weeks Jonathan and Tess Dropped everything and came and sang for us, the beauty in their voices comforted my entire family and we are eternally grateful. Again Thank You for sharing your precious son with all of us, all our love and prayers.
Michele, Chelsey, Sarah and
Kaitlyn James

Ashley

September 28, 2010

From the moment I met Jonathan over 10 years ago, he ALWAYS greeted me with a warm hug and an infectious smile...But he didn't just do that for me. He did it with everyone he knew, and sometimes people he didn't know as well. He was one of the most holy & loving people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He touched the lives of so many people during his short time on earth; people who will never forget him.

September 28, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss. I had Jonathan in my Anatomy class last Fall and he was like a brother to my stepdaughter, Katie. I only wish I had had more time to get to know this very special young man. Dr. Robert Logan (Modesto, CA)

Lesley Logan

September 28, 2010

Your family was so blessed with you-you will not be soon forgotten.~lesley~

Joe Espinoza

September 28, 2010

Dearest Balberto,Natalie & family
We met Jonathan a few times, a very well mannered, confident young man, yet a very genuine and down to earth. Jonathan will be greatly missed. As parents, you guided Jonathan to be a true man of our faith, he touched many lifes and I know he touhed ours. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers. From Joe,Grace,Jose,Michael,Tomasa Espinoza and all of our extended families.

Adriana Ruiz-McGraw

September 28, 2010

To the Sanchez family i am terribly sorry for the loss of your beautiful son Jonathan....i met him at St.John the Baptist in Baldwin Park and he was always as awesome person to just sit down and chat with. He will always be close to my heart for he was my brother in Christ...

Michael & Irene Jaureguy

September 28, 2010

Jonathan was a young man full of love. Love for his family, his faith and his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Eternal be his memory!

donna peterson

September 28, 2010

We are so sorry for the family loss. You are in our prayers.
Donna and Christopher Peterson

Lupita Garcia

September 28, 2010

Jonathan, you will be missed. We love you and we will always remember you. Thank you so much for sacrificing so much fo us. You will never be forgotten, watch over us now brother. Thank you for your smile. Sanchez family, thank you so much for allowing Jonathan to lead us closer to Christ. Jonathan truly is a saint! Amen!!

C.J. Woods

September 28, 2010

Jonathan, although I didn't talk to you all the time, through knowing your family, especially Bianca and Eryk, I got used to having you around as the one they, and a lot of other people, looked up to. Just by talking to a few people, it feels that all of Turlock and the surrounding areas are grieving. You are already missed and I pray for your family and the legacy that you probably never knew that you left.

Regina Enslin

September 28, 2010

My family and I are fairly new to OLA and on our path to become catholic. We would go to late mass just to hear the bands spiritual vibration that would sound like angels singing. Johnathon thank you for always making my family feel so welcomed when we would see you in mass. Once a man and now an ANGEL! Our prayers go out to all of his family and friends. REST IN PEACE
Matt & Regina Enslin

Jordan Blevins

September 28, 2010

Johnathan made me feel so welcome and important when I came to the youth group he led, and his voice was amazing. He was a great leader and had an amazing influence on everyone around him. I know at our church he wasn't just a youth and worship leader, he was a role model to our youth and an inspiration to everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. His smile and personality would light up any room and any situation he walked into. He will be greatly missed, and my prayers are with all who knew and loved him.

Pat Gough

September 28, 2010

On behalf of Jonathan's State Farm family I would like to express our sincerest condolences. Jonathan had taken on the task of helping people through his work with one of our State Farm agents. I spoke with Jonathan on the telephone just last week and although I never met him in person he was always so positive. I could tell by his voice that he was a wonderful young man who was going to conquer the world some day. We have lost a very special young man.

Sylvia Marley

September 28, 2010

Dear Balberto Jr., Natalie & Sanchez family,
We are so deeply,hearbreakingly saddened by the sudden loss of such a joyful and loving spirit. It is so touching to read how beautiful a person he was and how he lived his life with such purpose. Blessed is he and those whose lives he touched. He will remain in your hearts forever. May the love of God and all of his wonderfulness bring peace to you and know that we love you and will keep you in our prayers.
Love, Sylvia & Mark Marley
& Family

Mike, Sandi & Garrett Smith

September 28, 2010

We were so blessed by Jonathan's beautiful voice and that smile that could light up the room. His love for God shone through in all that he did. What an awesome young man and a great example for all of us to follow. Our thoughts and prayers are with those that miss Jonathan, as we do.

Vicki & Sasha Maldonado

September 28, 2010

Jonathan, (Beloved Godson, Nephew, Cousin, Mentor and Friend)
You made friends of everyone you met; this was a part of your loving spirit and contagious personality. We will remember you always in our hearts and in our memories. Our families and community are not only richer, but also blessed by you having been a part of our lives. We are most proud of your accomplishments and most of all your devotion to our Lord and our Lady. On behalf of all of the members of your extended families that love you and will sorely miss you. We send you our gratitude and our Love…
The Maldonado, Gonzalez, Bertalotto and Yanez families

Dorete & Carlos Sousa

September 28, 2010

We will never forget Jonathan's smile and beautiful voice. He touched the hearts of so many at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. We are all blessed to have had Jonathan at our parish, even for the short time he was here on earth. You will forever be in our hearts Jonathan!

Courtney Vereker

September 28, 2010

Jonathan! We will miss your wonderful smile and the way you could always make us laugh! I am so happy we all have you as an angel watching over us! We will miss you here, but we will see you again friend! Peace and Love~Courtney Vereker

TImothy Senstock

September 28, 2010

onathan, I can't believe you're gone buddy. I miss you. You were a great person and a great friend. I was lucky to have been your friend when you moved down to Fontana. I'll always remember those winter nights hanging out drinking coffee and playing guitar: just you, Ivan and I. Or when we both got off early from work and rushed over to your house to make breakfast. You would make me jog with you and I could never keep up; you never got tired man. I would call you a "Hondo Bear" and then you would never stop with that line. Ill never forget the time when I took you to your first rock and roll show. And it took you about a month for you to finally give me my jacket back. And my Vans!! Ill never forget the time when my fuel pump went out while were working as electricians and we had to walk a mile to get my LA Kings tickets. Or the times when we would talk until 4am about everything: Ill miss those conversations. We were inseparable that year and I had one of the best times of my life because of you. You're an amazing person. I've never met anyone like you. You had an infectious charisma and could befriend anyone you met with your warm personality. That is why you have so many friends and made them everywhere you went. You are an awesome person, John. The world will miss you. I could only hope that some of you rubbed off on me. I love you and I miss you. My thoughts go out to John's family. He talked about you all the time. He was very proud of his parents and wanted nothing more than to make them proud in return. I am sorry for your loss and I can only hope that you will find peace and understanding. My thoughts are forever with you.
Sincerely, Timothy Senstock

Clare and Chris Curry

September 28, 2010

Jonathan was a very loving, gracious, and compassionate young man. He touched many lives and hearts and we are all truly blessed to have had him in our lives.
You are in our prayers always.

Martin & Rachel Rojas

September 28, 2010

To the Sanchez Family
We are deeply saddened by the loss of your beautiful son Jonathan. What a gracious, loving heart your son possessed. Our thoughts are with you in your time of sorrow.
Sincerely, The Rojas Family
Martin, Rachel
Julian & Heath

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