Miguel “Mike” Sanchez Jr, age 81, of Defiance, peacefully passed away, on September 30, 2026, at Promedica Toledo Hospital with his family by his side.

He was born on November 24, 1944, to the late Miguel Sr and Elevinia (Perez) Sanchez in San Antonio, Texas. Miguel was a 1963 graduate of Columbus Grove High School and a proud Army service member from 1965 to 1967, stationed in Ft. Belvoir, Virginia, and serving time in Korea. On December 2, 1967, he married the love of his life, Faviola (Canales) Sanchez, who preceded him. He retired from GM Powertrain, Defiance after 30 years. Miguel was a faithful member of St. John and St. Mary Catholic Churches. He was a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather who put his family above all else. He will be greatly missed and remembered for his sense of humor, kindness, sincerity, loyalty, and love for his family.

Miguel is survived by his son, Marc (Brenda) Sanchez of Defiance, OH; grandson, Jacob (Becca) Sanchez of Cleveland, OH; brother, Robert (Barb) Sanchez of Defiance, OH; and sisters, Delores (Bruce) Gamiere of Defiance, OH and Theresa (Mark) Ordaz of New Braunfels, TX.

In addition to his parents and wife, Miguel was preceded in death by his sister, Cecelia (Hilario) Castillo and brother, Raul “Barney” Sanchez.

Miguel led an active life. He rarely missed a Chicago Cubs game and above all, cherished spending time with his son, Marc, and grandson, Jake. In leisure, he enjoyed gardening and fishing, and throughout the years participated in softball, shooting archery, bowling, tennis, and golf. He had a competitive spirit amongst his peers, but he also had hidden artistic talents he shared with few, including his gift for painting and his eye for photography. Drawing inspiration from French Impressionism, he kept much of his work private, but those fortunate enough to see it recognized his natural talent. Perhaps his greatest skill of all was simply being himself, and his ability to connect with others. Making friends was easy for him. His natural charisma helped lay strong connections and lasting impressions on everyone around him.

As Maya Angelou once said “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget the way you made them feel.”

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 2:00pm - 8:00pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00am on Friday October 9, 2026, at St. John Catholic Church, with Fr. Kevin McGraw, officiating. Miguel will be laid to rest next to his wife, Faviola, at Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. John Catholic Church.