Pedro Sandoval, Jr. Jr.

In loving memory of: Pedro Sandoval Jr Survived by: His loving wife, Rufa Sandoval His devoted parents, Pedro and Bacilisa Sandoval His grandmother, Luz Lamas His siblings and their spouses, who were also his friends: Adriana and Stephen Kraus Diego and Brooke Sandoval Vanessa and Sheldon Yoder Tatyana and Alex Thompson His mother-in-law, Nadia Borodin, and his siblings in-law, into whose family he was warmly embraced the day he married Rufa His nieces and nephews, who held a special place in his heart His extended family including many aunts, uncles and cousins Many beloved friends and church family Pallbearers: Diego Sandoval Logan Stoltzfus Aaron Heatwole Nicholas Shank Josiah Driver Ryan Helmuth Caleb Helmuth David Tice Jr Adam Good Life Story: Pedro Sandoval Jr. was born on May 11, 1989, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Pedro and Bacilisa Sandoval. He was the third of five children and was more than just a brother to Adriana Kraus, Diego Sandoval, Vanessa Yoder, and Tatyana Thompson-he was also a true friend. In May of 1995, the Sandoval family moved to the Shenandoah Valley, where Pedro created many cherished memories-riding bicycles through Dayton, helping at his parents' restaurant, La Casita, and traveling to Mexico together. He completed his education at Calvary Christian Academy, where he formed lasting friendships and was introduced to Dayton Mennonite Church. It was there that his faith in Jesus Christ deepened, and he chose to be baptized again as an adult. Later, he attended Rosedale Bible College, where his relationship with God continued to grow and where he made lifelong friends. Pedro was known for his sense of humor, his kindness, and his constant willingness to help others. He brought a steady, calm presence to those around him and was always ready to lend a hand-quietly and without needing recognition. A hard worker, he spent most of his adult life at Helmuth Builders, where he was respected for both his dedication and his dependable, thoughtful nature. Pedro's love for Jesus and his church family was clear in the many ways he served. As a young adult, he joined a mission trip with the youth group, later he filmed and edited church service videos, ran lights for a Christmas play, taught children's Sunday School, and helped lead Vacation Bible School. He gave of himself quietly and faithfully. In July of 2015, Pedro met Rufa (Borodin) Sandoval. Their connection was immediate, and they were married just a year later, on July 30, 2016. With God at the center of their marriage, Pedro led their home with unwavering faith and steady love. Together, they served in children's ministry, traveled around the world and especially treasured time spent with each other, their families, and close friends. Pedro was first diagnosed with Anaplastic Ependymoma, a rare form of brain and spine cancer, in November 2012. After surgery and treatment, he experienced several years of remission, during which he lived fully and well. When the cancer returned, he faced every surgery and every treatment with courage, peace, and a faith that never wavered. He often talked of the story in John chapter 9, where Jesus is asked why a man was born blind. Jesus answered, "This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him." Even in pain and uncertainty, Pedro's words were often, "It's for God's glory." On August 14, 2025, Pedro entered into eternal rest. He saw his Savior face to face and received the crown of life. "A man who endures trials is blessed, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him." -James 1:12 Pedro Sandoval Jr., 36, of Bridgewater, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025. The family will receive friends from 4 PM until 7 PM Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, at the Dayton Mennonite Church. A service celebrating Pedro's life will be held at 4:30 PM on Tuesday, August 19th at the Dayton Mennonite Church (4887 John Wayland Hwy, Dayton), followed by a meal at the First Russian Baptist Church (784 Dinkle Ave, Mt. Crawford). A private burial will follow at 9 AM on Wednesday at Dayton Mennonite Church Cemetery. Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater is entrusted with arrangements.