Daniel Jacob Sanchez

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Daniel Jacob Sanchez, who passed away peacefully at his home in Yukon, Oklahoma, on Monday, September 8, 2025. He was 75 years old.

Daniel was born on July 21, 1950, in Silver City, New Mexico. His family later moved to Bishop, California, where he began working alongside his father in a tungsten mine at just nine years old. Following high school, Daniel proudly served his country in the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army.

After his military service, Daniel relocated to Oklahoma, where he built a career in fiber optics through the University of Oklahoma. His role required him to travel extensively across many states, leading installation crews. Though the work often took him away from home, Daniel embraced every opportunity with dedication and skill. Throughout his life, he wore many hats and accomplished much, both professionally and personally.

A gifted artist, Daniel created beautiful Native American art, proudly displaying his pieces throughout his home. He also had a passion for woodworking, equipped with all the tools of the trade and a knack for craftsmanship. Later in life, he served as the maintenance director at an assisted living center before retiring.

In 2016, Daniel married the love of his life, Barbara, and together they shared a deep bond. The couple was rarely apart, working side by side in a painting and handyman business they built together. After a few fulfilling years, they chose to retire and enjoy life at a slower pace.

Daniel was known for his quick wit, warm spirit, and infectious laughter. He never met a stranger and was a gifted storyteller who brought joy to those around him. He proudly embraced his Native heritage as a Mescalero Apache and danced at Pow Wows with the Comanche Little Ponies. Daniel truly lived life to the fullest. His greatest joys were his wife, his son, and his grandchildren.

He was one of a kind — generous, talented, and always ready to lend a helping hand.

Daniel is preceded in death by his father, Jesus Sanchez; his mother, Senaida Sanchez; and his brother, Mariano Sanchez.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Sanchez; his son, Aaron Sanchez, and daughter-in-law Brandy Sanchez; his grandchildren: Brandon Sanchez, Nathan Sanchez and wife Baylee Sanchez, and Ryan Sanchez; great-grandson, Lane Sanchez; his brother, Orlando Sanchez, and sister-in-law Susie Sanchez; nephews: O.J. Sanchez, Taza Sanchez, Ramond Sanchez, Donavan Sanchez, and Derek Sanchez; brother-in-law Darrell Rich; and adopted sister Rosalie Beeby.

Daniel's legacy of love, strength, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Viewing will be held from 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Sunday, September 14, 2025 at the funeral home. Celebration of Life services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, September 15, at the Yanda & Son Funeral Home Chapel, with interment following at Frisco Cemetery, Yukon, OK.