Danny Sandoval

Danny Sandoval, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on June 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 79 years old.

Born in Nambe, New Mexico, Danny was raised in both Nambe and Los Alamos. He graduated from Los Alamos High School and went on to attend the College of Santa Fe. He dedicated 37 years of service to the Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), where he was known for his strong work ethic and easygoing nature.

Danny resided in Santa Fe, Glorieta, and Seattle, Washington before ultimately making his home in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. A proud member of the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe, he spent many years helping to build the treasured Zozobra, contributing his time and talents to this iconic local tradition.

He loved sports and was a dedicated San Francisco 49ers fan. A lifetime highlight was watching Joe Montana and the San Francisco 49ers play at Candlestick Stadium.

An avid outdoorsman, Danny loved hunting and fishing. He remained active throughout his life and played softball for many years on PNM's company team. He had a unique gift for connection, befriending everyone from the rich and famous he encountered through his work to strangers in need. His generosity and willingness to help anyone left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Danny had a knack for storytelling, especially when it came to the tales of the mischief he would get into growing up in Los Alamos.

Danny's commitment to family extended across generations. While living in Seattle, he regularly returned to Nambe to care for his mother, reflecting the deep sense of duty, love, and respect he carried for those closest to him. Another beloved family tradition he held dear was the annual Easter barbecue at Sandia Lakes. Danny took great pride in organizing the event each year, often arriving at the gate before sunrise to secure the family's favorite spot. His devotion to creating those lasting memories brought generations together and became a cherished part of the Sandoval family story.

Danny is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Rosie Gabaldon Sandoval; his children, Danette Brown (David), Jennifer Sandoval, and Raymond Sandoval (Matt); and his cherished grandchildren, Maxine Sandoval and Robby Ulibarri. He is also survived by his brothers, Ed Sandoval and Bill Sandoval.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herminio Sandoval and Lucinda Rivera Sandoval; his brother, Wilfred Sandoval; and his sisters, Arabelle Sandoval, Pauline Hickerson, and Pita Burke.

The Sandoval family would like to extend our deepest heartfelt thank you to Compassus Hospice with a debt of gratitude to Alejandro, Maria, Corine and Sabine, as well as his devoted caregivers Blanca, Maricela, and Josette. Their care and compassion meant the world to Danny and his family.

Danny's legacy of love, laughter, and dedication lives on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

A Rosary will be recited on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 9:00 am followed by a Mass at 10:00 AM to be celebrated at Sacred Heart Nambe Church, 192 NM-503, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506. Burial will follow at the Nambe Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Damian Gabaldon, David Brown, Matt Hammond, Chris Castellanos, Bryan Sandoval, Ken Garley, Jacob Romero, Darren Wilkins

Honorary Pallbearer: Edwin Lucero