[Editor’s Note: Updated information on Saturday’s viewing/funeral/reception plans may be found in Mr. Sanchez’s obituary, “Coach Dave Sanchez, 1954-2013.”]
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Coach Dave Sanchez. Photograph by George Laase.
Even when you have had months or years to prepare, to steel yourself, the shock of death still stuns and numbs.
When Culver City High School Principal Dylan Farris was reminiscing this afternoon about the death of coach Dave Sanchez yesterday, he had to stop.
For a year the campus has known that the 58-year-old Mr. Sanchez was being treated for stage IV pancreatic cancer.
A member of the faculty for two decades, “Dave was a strong force on the staff,” Mr. Farris said.
“He was so well liked, obviously, by students and staff.
“I can tell you, I was up in the middle of the night, I looked on Facebook, and it was buzzing. Still is.
“Past students, especially. He made such an impact on so many kids.
“Dave taught kids how to set their priorities, how to go for the things they really desired, to be dedicated.
“I think he brought his coaching strategies into the classroom. He was not just their math teacher. He was a coach, not just on the soccer field but when it came to content in the classroom.
“Dave was kind of a life coach. Kids in his class really learned valuable life lessons. That is the impression I am getting from what I am reading on Facebook,” Mr. Farris said.
“He was always friendly. Would speak his mind when he felt strongly about something. He would not remain silent if he thought something needed to be improved. He had a very strong voice when it came to matters at the high school and how we could be doing things better here.
“He was a favorite here. He had a talent for being able to speak his mind without being offputting.
“We all connected really well to him,” Mr. Farris said.
The principal recalled two particular appearances Coach made on his old campus in the past year.
One, was last spring’s retirement dinner for his close friend, Athletic Director Jerry Chabola.
Before Mr. Farris could cite the second instant, he was overcome and had to turn away.
Social Media
Here is a selection of Facebook comments:
Richard Rodriguez:
“Today I just found out sad news that one of my favorite cross country coaches I ever had passed away. He helped me in high school when I needed help with math. He was the one who got me to join CCHS cross country team. As a 9th grader, he put me on the varsity squad, and I won Rookie of the Year, all with the help of Coach Sanchez. You will be with me always, Coach. Thanks for everything. RIP Coach Dave Sanchez.”
Katie Laase:
“Dave Sanchez, you made a lasting impact on my life and helped me learn how to prioritize the things I am most passionate about. You were always there to listen and went above the call of duty. You helped me get straight A’s in 7th grade, and knew exactly how to make me smile. Thank you for your wisdom, humor, and huge heart. You will forever be missed. RIP Coach.”
Summer Time:
“For everyone who went to Culver, I am sure you know that Coach Sanchez passed away. He was an inspiring and encouraging coach, mentor and a great person. Please take a moment to say a little prayer for him and his family. God rest his soul.”
