Emilio Villa Sanchez

Today we gather to celebrate with deep love and heavy hearts, the passing of Emilio Villa (Papi) Sanchez, his heart of gold stopped beating, hardworking hands now resting surrounded by his loving family at the age of 74. 

Emilio was born and raised in Jalisco, Mexico to Martin and Maria Concepcion (Villa) Sanchez. As a child he had a strong personality, always cheerful and even then, hardworking. He later moved to Indiana, becoming a proud Local 81 member since 1976, where he was a construction laborer/foreman for various companies while still working at Westbrook Apartments until his untimely death.

Emilio was known for being a hardworking, driven man, who found joy in life's little things, such as Sunday outings with his wife, listening to music, yard work, working on cars, taking walks or even riding his bike, spending time with his family, especially the cookouts while he enjoyed a nice cold beer. He will be truly missed by everyone who knew him; he was definitely one of a kind.

Preceded in death in death by his parents; Martin and Maria Concepcion; four sisters, Sara, Ramona, Luisa, and Eulalia; one brother, Francisco and dearest friend, Jovino Huziar.

Emilio leaves to cherish his memories: devoted and loving wife, Marian (Delgado) Sanchez; three daughters, Sylvia, Irene, and Sara; one son, Juan all of Hobart, Indiana; six grandchildren, Sarah, Jay'Juan, Cierra, Kyrah, Ilisa, Elijah; four great-grandchildren, Sariyah, Giovanni, Ley'onni, and Jalessia'; siblings, one brother, Juvenal; four sisters, Consuelo, Maria, Olivia, and Jovita; dearest friends, Ernesto Guerrero and Rodrigo Ramirez; and a host of nieces, nephews, god-children, brothers and sisters in-law, family and friends.

Emilio's legacy of strength, love, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to have known him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Visitation will be Wednesday, December 3, 2025, 12:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. with additional visitation on Thursday, December 4, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. and Celebration of Life Services 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. All services will be held from Ridgelawn Funeral Home 4201 West Ridge Road Gary, Indiana 46408.

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