Jose Roberto Orlando Sanchez (“Landy”), born on November 6, 1939, in Mora, New Mexico, departed from this world peacefully on February 4, 2024 at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, faith and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Landy was born the fifth of twelve children in Mora, New Mexico to Alfonso Sanchez (Wagon Mound, NM) and Katherine Trambley (Mora, NM).  The family moved to San Diego, CA to support the War effort in 1942.  It was in San Diego where Landy came of age. As a young boy, a local artist painted Landy and his family on a mural depicting the Nativity, which stands today at St. Joseph's Cathedral in San Diego.  He attended St. Joseph's Catholic School, where he was an altar boy and student body president. He graduated from San Diego High School in the Class of 1957, and is a graduate of San Diego State University. These early experiences laid the foundation for a life marked by service and resilience.

His commitment to service started at the California Division of Forestry as a firefighter, and later the United States Army, where he served in various locations in the US and Europe from 1962 to 1965, exemplifying his patriotism and commitment to his country.

It was at General Dynamics in the 1960s and 1970s in Saigon, Vietnam that his life took a momentous turn. In 1971, Landy married Anh (“Annie”), the love of his life. Their union was not just a bond of love but a partnership in facing life's challenges with strength, determination, and faith.  

The true measure of Landy’s character revealed itself in the face of adversity. Days before Saigon fell in April 1975, he exhibited extraordinary courage and compassion when he took the last flight to Saigon from Bangkok to rescue 9 of Annie’s younger siblings.  Returning to California after the Vietnam War with refugee children that did not speak English, Landy and Annie selflessly raised them and their three children - now a family of 14 - embodying the true essence of family and love.

Later in his career, Landy moved to Las Vegas, where he continued his lifelong mission of service. Working with the Division of Child and Family Services in the State of Nevada, he dedicated himself to ensuring the safety and well-being of foster children, leaving an indelible and profound impact on countless lives.

Landy is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Annie, their three children, Maria (Oliver), John (Susan), and Robert, and four grandchildren (Catcher, Isabella, Peyton, and Oliver). He will be remembered not only for his selflessness and resilience but also for the profound love and devotion he showered upon his family and those in need. He was a “stand up guy”, never missed a game or show that his kids and grandkids played or performed in, and went to church every Sunday. 

Landy’s spirit will forever illuminate our lives, guiding us with the enduring legacy and profound impact of his remarkable life.

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