John Sandoval Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Captain John Sandoval Jr., of Pueblo, CO. A devoted husband, beloved father, cherished grandfather, and proud United States Marine, who passed away at the age of 88 on April 27, 2025 in Henderson, NV.

Born in Picacho, NM on March 23rd, 1937, with a heart full of courage and a spirit of unwavering dedication, John joined the United States Marine Corps at just 18 years old. Over the course of 25 distinguished years of service, he exemplified the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he served bravely as an aerial observer, his love of flight matched only by his resilience, surviving two plane crashes during his time in the skies.

Throughout his military career, John was awarded for valor and exemplary service, including the Bronze Star Medal with "V" device, the Purple Heart, the Air Medal 21 strikes and the Air Medal Gold Star, and the Combat Action Ribbon, the Vietnam Service Medal, The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, The Naval Aviation Observer Badge, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy and Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. His dedication to his country was unwavering, once a Marine, always a Marine.

Beyond the uniform, John was a man of deep love and a warm heart. He married his wife, Mary Ellen, in 1984, and together they shared 40 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they loved attending the Marine reunions where they would go on to win dance competitions together, the jitter bug being their favorite dance. He continued to show his service to the military community and share his strength and wisdom by working for the State of Pueblo as a counselor for the VA. As a husband, father and grandfather, he was a guiding light, steady, strong, and full of wisdom. He treasured family above all and had a strong connection with his beloved pets. He found his greatest joy in the laughter, accomplishments, and the simple moments together with all of them.

John will be remembered for his strength, humility, and the legacy of service and love he leaves behind. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

John is preceded in death by his father and mother Juan Sandoval and Louise Sandoval, his siblings Benjamin, Daniel, James and Lilly Sandoval, his son John Daniel, and his granddaughter Crystal Clamenza.

He is survived by his beloved wife Mary Ellen Sandoval, his children Laura Sandoval-Adams, Debra Zimmerman, Rebecca Sandoval, Trina Clamenza, Russell Gonzales and Giavanna C. Sandoval, his grandchildren Hannah Rodriguez, Madison Zimmerman, Staci Clamenza, Alicia Roybal, Abram Herrera and Zachary Gonzales, his great-grandchildren Harrison Sanchez, Anastacia Sanchez, U’ilani Andreu and a proud extended family of brothers- and sisters-in-arms.

A celebration of life and military honors will be held on Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 at 10:40am, at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Dr., Boulder City, NV 89005.