Benjamin Lorenzo Sanchez Jr., affectionately known as 'Coach Ben Sanchez,' passed away on Sunday, August 5, 2018, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. He was just 29 years old at the time of his death. Born on March 10, 1989, in Ruidoso, New Mexico, Coach Ben had spent his entire life in Lincoln County, where he was deeply involved in the local community, particularly through his coaching endeavors.
Coach Ben's impact on the community was significant, as he coached at various schools and Little
League teams in the area, including Hondo, Ruidoso, Capitan, and Mescalero. His dedication to the youth and his passion for sports were well-known and respected by all who knew him. His passing was a profound loss to the community, as he was not only a coach but also a mentor and a role model for many young athletes.
There is no indication from the available sources that Coach Ben's death was related to any criminal activity or that there were any suspects involved. His death appears to have been a personal tragedy rather than a result of any foul play. The obituary details his family and the various individuals he was close to, highlighting the extensive network of loved ones he left behind.
Coach Ben is survived by his mother, Corena Baca; his brother, Isaac Sanchez; his sister, Melinda Silva; his partner, Brie Martinez; his children, Jeneah Leigh Sanchez and Benny Pete Sanchez; his grandparents, Amie and Pete Baca Sr.; his uncle, Pete Baca Jr.; his aunt, Camille Baca; and numerous other relatives, including his in-laws and godsons. The funeral services for Coach Ben included a rosary service on Thursday, August 9, 2018, followed by a funeral mass on Friday, August 10, 2018, at St. Eleanor Catholic Church. He was buried at St. Jude Catholic Cemetery in San Patricio, New Mexico.
Given the nature of the information available, there is no mention of any suspects, arrests, or ongoing investigations related to Coach Ben's death. His passing is remembered as a tragic loss to his family, friends, and the community he served through his coaching and mentorship.
