Elmer Sandoval

Elmer Jose Sandoval

January 8, 1934 ~ December 23, 2023

Elmer Jose Sandoval, 89, a lifelong resident of Cordova, NM, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2023, surrounded by his loving family after a lengthy illness.

Elmer is preceded in death by his parents Santiago and Delfinia Sandoval; his in-laws Alfredo and Jacobita Vigil; infant daughter Elaine; son Tomas; brother Ernesto; sisters Juanita and Rose; and many other family and friends.

Elmer is survived by his loving wife of 69 years Clorinda; son Donald (Cindy); daughters Irene (Anthony), Maida and Carol Ann (Ernest); sister Louise; Lorenzo Ramirez who was raised by him as a son; 21 grandchildren; 13 great- grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; Godson Jesse Martinez; Goddaughter Annette Ortiz; his best and life-long friend Arquin Pacheco.

Elmer was a loving and kind son, husband, father, great-grandfather and great-great grandfather, brother, uncle, brother-in-law and friend to all who knew him. 

Elmer grew up in Cordova tending to his parent’s ranch raising animals, gardening, gathering wood and all necessary duties as a rancher.  Later tending to his own farm.  He was a proud member of the Cofradia of Cordova and a Hermano Mayor for many years.  He worked construction for many years.  He was a proud member of Local Union 16 for 50 years and retired.

He enjoyed horseback riding, fishing, camping, traveling, playing his harmonica and accordion in the evenings. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  He was a jokester up until his last days and had a contagious laugh.  He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.  Elmer says “goodbye to the whole shebang.  Till we meet again”.

A public visitation will be on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at 5:30 pm in the Chapel of Peace at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM, with a Rosary to follow at 6:00 pm.  Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Holy Family Catholic Church in Chimayo, NM.  Burial will follow at the Cordova Catholic Cemetery in Cordova, NM.

Serving as Pallbearers are Jesse Martinez, Gene Martinez, Jerome Martinez, Lorenzo Ramirez, Matthew Carr and Anthony Maestas.

Honorary Pallbearers are Andrea Martinez, Annette Ortiz, Lynette Martinez, Donna Maestas and all of the grandchildren.

Thanks to all the staff at Enchanted Sky for being Elmer’s caregivers and also Yvette Pacheco and Priscilla Casias, you were a blessing in helping with Elmer’s healthcare.  We appreciate you all. 

The family of Elmer Sandoval has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  www.devargasfuneral.com   505-747-7477