Lasting Memories

Cristobal Jose Sanchez
Jan. 27, 1926-Dec. 10, 2020
Palo Alto, California

Cristobal (Chris) Sanchez, a Palo Alto resident for 64 years, passed away at his home on 12/10/20. He was one month shy of his 95th birthday. Chris was born and raised in Texas. He had strong family ties to the historical development of that State. Parochial school educated, Chris began working for Pan American World Airways in 1943. As a purser, he flew mail routes through Central America and down the Eastern Coast of Venezuela.

His career with Pan Am was interrupted in 1944 to serve in the Army during World War II. Following the war, Chris returned to Pan American where he served as purser and then flight service director, taking him to every part of the world for 45 years. He was selected to work on many of Pan Am's inaugural flights. He received a commendation from General Wm. Westmoreland for his service on R&R flights out of Saigon during troop and refugee evacuations at the end of the Vietnam War. After his retirement from Pan Am, he took a position with Neiman Marcus at Stanford Shopping Center. There he enjoyed working in the epicurean shop for 15 years where he could showcase his extensive knowledge of fine wines. Chris spoke several languages, enjoyed fine foods, books, and music. He definitely had a way with words! Above all, he loved his family, raising all 4 of his children in Palo Alto. He is preceded in death by his daughter Celeste Gene Sanchez. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Marilyn (nee Memmott), his son Christopher (Debra) of Palo Alto, daughters Christine (David) of Rocklin California, and Laura (Bill) of Boise Idaho. He was the beloved grandfather of eight and great grandfather of 2. A private family memorial is planned for a later date per his wishes.