Abelardo Cardova Sandoval

Abelardo Cordova Sandoval
SEPTEMBER 4, 1949 – JANUARY 15, 2 0 2 6

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Abelardo "Lalo" Cordova Sandoval, of Santa Gertrudis, Coahuila, Mexico,
on the morning of January 15th, 2026. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Abelardo "Lalo" Cordova Sandoval, of Santa Gertrudis, Coahuila, Mexico, on the morning of January 15, 2026. Abelardo "Lalo" was born on September 4, 1949, in Santa Gertrudis, Coahuila, Mexico, to Melchora Cordova and Isidro Sandoval. He was the second of twelve brothers, all born in Mexico.

From a young age, Lalo developed a deep love for the outdoors. As a child, he spent countless days shepherding animals through the mountainsides of Mexico, often alone with his rifle and his loyal dog. At just 17 years old, Lalo set out in search of greater opportunity, making his way to Texas to begin a new chapter in life. There, he built a strong and determined work ethic while working in construction. While working in San Antonio, Lalo met the daughter of a man he worked for and fell for her "hook, line, and sinker."

He married Dora Sandoval on April 15 in San Antonio, Texas. Though his work in construction took him and his growing family back and forth between Texas and California, Lalo eventually settled in San Antonio, where he specialized in roofing. Lalo leaves behind a legacy rich with stories-from his childhood in Mexico to his years as a proud great-grandfather. Some tales may have been hard to believe and possibly embellished, but that was simply Lalo. He was never one to keep a secret. Known fondly as "Hapo," he was always eager to share joyful news, whether it was the arrival of a new grandchild or another life-changing event.

In his free time, Hapo enjoyed trips to Taco Martinez for menudo, fishing, frequent visits to his and his wife's home in Mexico, and-most of all-cookouts and any excuse to gather with family. His greatest joy was being surrounded by loved ones, and his passion for family togetherness is what he truly lived for. Abelardo Sandoval is preceded in death by his parents, Isidro Sandoval and Melchora Cordova, and his brothers Ovidio, Sergio, and Jaime Sandoval. He now rejoins them in heaven.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Dora Sandoval; his daughters, Mary Ann Garza, Dora "Pancha" Sandoval, and Annie Lopez; his sons, Abelardo "Lalin" Sandoval Jr., Isidro "Chacho" Sandoval, and Jimmy Sandoval, along with their spouses. He is also survived by eight brothers, 25 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren.

A visitation for Abelardo will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Castillo Mission Funeral Home (Chapel G1), located at 520 N. General McMullen, San Antonio, TX 78228. A prayer service will be held at 6:00 PM. This visitation and prayer service will be the only celebration of life held for Abelardo in San Antonio. Abelardo's remains will be taken to his birthplace of Santa Gertrudis, Coahuila, Mexico, for a final farewell, where he will be laid to rest on February 7–8, 2026. The family of Abelardo Sandoval wishes to extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who has shown kindness, love, and support during this time of bereavement.

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