Daniel A. Sandoval, age 78, of Nambe, NM, went peacefully and in the arms of love, to be with the Lord in the early morning hours of February 21, 2026.

Daniel dedicated more than 35 years of service to Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he worked as an Industrial Hygienist and took great pride in his career. He genuinely loved what he did. Many will remember him making the daily commute “up the hill” in his maroon and cream-colored 1971 Ford with the camper shell —an unforgettable truck you could spot from a mile away. He was always eager to share stories about anything with anyone willing to listen.

An avid outdoorsman, Daniel loved fishing at Santa Cruz Lake and Eagle Nest Lake, often enjoying the peaceful view with a beer in hand. He also found joy in hunting, camping, playing tennis, woodworking, pruning trees, tending to his lawn, bowling, and making his rounds to visit friends. He was rarely still—there was always something to do and somewhere to go.

Cooking was close to his heart, and he took pride in preparing his special rainbow trout and fried chicken and inviting others over to enjoy. Some of his simplest pleasures were the most meaningful: sitting outside with a cold Pepsi, a cigarette, and the radio playing while watching the traffic pass by. He also enjoyed a good margarita and some guacamole, as well as vanilla or cherry shakes, Nutty Buddy ice cream, Little Debbie cakes, and his mother’s homemade biscochitos, which made life just a little sweeter.

Daniel had a generous spirit and enjoyed giving to others. He often arrived with fresh flowers, fruit, sweets, or small thoughtful treats for friends and family—rarely, if ever, empty-handed.

A true character, Daniel will be missed by his family, and friends he gathered throughout his life. We find comfort in knowing he is reunited with loved ones who have gone before him—perhaps enjoying a beautiful sunset and sharing one more good story.

A special thank you, from his daughter Leah, to the tremendous care team who included nurses and health aides, as well as private caregivers (Rosa, Amelia and Lavina), who all cared for him with compassion and dedication. You made his last year possible.

A brief Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 1:00 pm at DeVargas Funeral Home in Española, NM. Burial of the ashes to be held privately at a later date.

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