Virginio “Wilkie” Sandoval passed away on Friday October 20, 2018 in San Rafael, New Mexico surrounded by his loving family, He was 78. He was born on July 23, 1940 in Ribera, New Mexico to Donaciano Sandoval and Rosaura Garcia Sandoval. Wilkie proudly served a four-year term in the United States Marine Corp.
He was a devout catholic and was a member of San Rafael Parish, and for many years involved in many parish activities, the parish council, Mayordomo. Wilkie was active in his community and served as the President of the San Rafael basketball program, San Rafael Volunteer Fire Department serving as Chief and Firefighter. He was also active with the San Rafael Water District serving on the board as a member and President.
He was a former copper and uranium miner and retired from the State Highway department. He loved hunting and going to the mountains with his son and his friends. Wilkie is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years Hazel Sandoval.
His children; Danette Sandoval (Jesus), Dion Sandoval (Marissa), Danielle Sandoval (Tony). His grandchildren; Fernando Hernandez, Troy Sandoval, Christian Sandoval, Jason Sandoval, Alicia Canaba, Monique Sandoval, Joshua Canaba. His great-grandchild; Bailee Faith Sandoval.
His sister; Petra Ribera (Eddie) of Barstow, CA. His brothers; Pete Garcia (Grace) Pueblo, CO, Raymond Sandoval (Pauline) of Las Vegas, NV, Juan Sandoval (Frances) of Yuma, AZ, Tony Sandoval (Wanda) of San Rafael, NM, and Tommy Sandoval of Albuquerque, NM. His furry babies; Daphne and Lexie along with his many treasured nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his children; Tommy Sandoval and Lonnie Sandoval. His parents; Donaciano and Rosaura Sandoval. His brother; Tom Sandoval and sisters; Lena Gollete, and Margaret Ulibarri.
Friday October 26, 2018 at San Rafael Catholic Church a public visitation will begin at 9:00-10:30 am, A Devotional Rosary will then be recited at 10:30 am, a chalice presentation will be conducted by Knights of Columbus, Father Howard Meyer, OFM Assembly #2218 then a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Alberto Avella at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at the San Rafael Cemetery. Honors will be by the San Rafael Volunteer Fire Department and VFW Post # 3221.
A reception will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 1601 E. Roosevelt Ave. in Grants, New Mexico following the services. Pallbearers include his grandsons; Fernando Hernandez, Troy Sandoval, Christian Sandoval, Jason Sandoval, Joshua Canaba, and friend Mike Molina.
Honorary Pallbearers include; Benjie Lopez, Anthony Chavez, Tony Gallegos, Leonard Garcia, Lalo Chavez, Antonio Canaba, Dan Sanchez along with all his brother Knights. Memorial contributions in Wilkie’s memory can be made to the American Cancer Society. Cope Memorial Chapel of Gallup is entrusted with arrangements.
Donations may be made to: American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City OK 73123 Tel: 1-800-227-2345 Web: www.
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