Esteban Manuel "Steven" Sanchez

Esteban Manuel Sanchez, 28, passed away on Thursday, February 23, 2023.

An Asheville native, Esteban – or Steven, as a lot of us knew him – was a son of Antonio and Maria Dolores Sanchez. He is also survived by his sister, Elizabeth Sanchez, brother, Dani Sanchez, and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins in both this country and Spain. He is also survived by his grandmother, Milagros Payne.

Steven was a kind and loving soul who often was most at peace in nature. He loved animals and took great care of his little kitten, “Kaboodle,” who will miss him greatly (or at least as much as a cat misses anyone). Steven had a quick wit and great sense of humor. He loved his family deeply and never had an ill word for anyone. Steven had a sweet, gentle heart that will carry on in the lives of those who knew him.

A simple memorial service for Esteban will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 3, at the Groce Funeral Home chapel on Patton Ave. Steve Berry will conduct the service as family, friends and loved ones gather to remember his life. There will also be a mass dedicated to Steven at St. Lawrence in Asheville on Sunday, March 5.

After Friday’s memorial, Steven’s family will receive loved ones at the home of his sister, Elizabeth, and brother-in-law, Robertino, on the campus of the Asheville School.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Esteban’s memory may be made to ABCCM’s Code Purple Response.