Juan “Chuy” Sandoval Jr. was called home to be with our God in his kingdom on Dec. 1, 2021. He was born on March 4, 1948 to Juan Sr. and Dominga Sandoval of Martindale, TX whom will surely receive him with open arms at heaven’s gate.
John is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Avelina (Abby) R. Sandoval whom cared for him in their home through the end of his days.
His children, eldest daughter, April Serna (husband Abel Sr.) of Martindale, TX, son Eric Sandoval (wife Jessica) of San Marcos, TX and youngest daughter Ida Sandoval of Martindale, TX will all truly miss their Poppy.
Junior/June is also survived by his sisters Lina and Pule Delgado of Reedville, TX, Lucy and Allen Walther of Buda, TX and Angie and Arnold Rodriguez of Klye, TX and countless nieces and nephews.
He was a loving and devoted Grandpa to his grandchildren: Alexzandra Sandoval, Jon Eric Sandoval, Rocky Sandoval, Kai Sandoval, Max Sandoval, Ian Romero, Izabella Romero, Iyana Romero, Layla Zapata, Julius Zapata, Abel Serna Jr., Allison Serna, Alynda Serna and great grandson Jason Lee Pena III.
Chuy was known by many through his hobbies of art, volleyball or a waiter at Aqurena Springs Restaurant, Kismet Café or Rogelio’s Restaurant. Though he graduated from Southwest Texas State University (SWT) in 1982 with a degree in Art and minor in Education, he loved being a waiter. It was his quick wit and gift to gab that made him countless friends as he maneuvered through the tables of these establishments. His passion for volleyball began in the barracks of Vietnam where he served proudly as a Marine during the Vietnam War (Oorah!). He continued that at SWT as the coach and player of the Men’s Volleyball Club in the late 80s to early 90s as he continued his education towards a coaching degree. He and his buddy Clyde Barroso spear headed the establishment of the first sand volleyball court at Sewell Park. He was a member of the USA Volleyball Association for many years as a player, coach, Regional referee, tournament director and Senior Olympic player. His love grew even more when his children shared in his passion for the sport and joined him on the volleyball court.
Poppy would spend his leisure time drawing and painting; horses and nature were his favorite subjects to create from. Many years were spent hand crafting anything from silk screened shirts, logos for friends’ businesses, parade float decorations, pottery in college, and handmade gifts. He was so proud his talents passed on to many of his grandchildren. He would give his paintings and crafts away as gifts to close family and friends or show them at his mini art shows. Consider yourself one of the lucky ones if you have a JS original painting. He loved talking art techniques to anyone that would listen.
Yone’ loved getting out on the dance floor and passed that gift on to his kids and grandchildren. Whenever the Sandovals went to a dance or party, you’d be sure that Grandpa would get the dancing started! Some would say he was the life of the party. He and Abby could cut a rug in their day!
This man, known by many names, will be dearly missed. His family thanks each and every one of you that have sent their condolences, prayers and support during his final days and after his passing.
The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff in the cardiac department and physical therapists of Christus Santa Rosa Hospital in San Marcos, TX and the staff at PAM Warm Springs in Luling, TX. Most importantly, show their appreciation to Peggy, Hilda, Roxanne, Jackie and Cindy along with other nurses, aides and staff of the Christus Santa Rosa Hospice for being there through his final journey.
John’s final hurrah was on Friday, December 10, 2021, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church 310 Lockhart St., Martindale, TX. Visitation was followed by Recitation of the Holy Rosary then a final viewing. The Celebration of his life continued at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Rev. Father Refael Padilla officiated. A procession to his final resting place at San Juan Cemetery in Reedville, TX immediately followed. The family invited you to continue fellowship and remembrance of their dearly departed at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Martindale, TX. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Los Angeles Funeral home with the Villaseñor Family Directors of San Marcos, TX.
Serving as Pallbearers were Rocky Sandoval, Clyde Barroso, Rosanna Ramirez, Benito Rodriguez Sr., Jeremiah Mills and Jason Otto. Honorary Pall bearers include Jon Eric Sandoval, Alexzandra Sandoval, Abraham Andros, Ramiro Hinojosa, Rudy Delgado, Joe Alvarado and Jo Ann Hanson.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to a GoFundMe account: “Family of Juan ‘Chuy’ Sandoval Jr.” to help with medical and funeral expenses.
They would also love to receive in your words how you knew their beloved or how he touched your life. A card box will be at the funeral site so you may drop off. You may also mail to the Sandoval family at 642 Anderson Lane, Martindale, TX 78655.
Semper Fi Marine, and have the dance floor and volleyball courts ready when we see you again!
