Bernardo Sandoval

February 12, 1948 – February 11, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Bernardo Sandoval on February 11, 2025, just one day before his 78th birthday. While we were preparing to celebrate his life, God had other plans, calling him home far too soon.

Bernardo dedicated 42 years of unwavering hard work to Union Pacific Railroad, beginning his career laying railroad tracks before transitioning into a customer service role, where he helped countless people with his knowledge and dedication. Through the years, he built a legacy of resilience, sacrifice, and love. A self-made man, he crossed into the U.S. at just 16 years old with nothing but determination and an unstoppable will to succeed. Though his hands were calloused from labor, they also crafted the most incredible meals, as cooking became one of his greatest joys.

He found peace in fishing, a passion he passed down to his children and grandchildren, teaching them the patience and skill of the sport, along with the kind of wisdom only a father and grandfather could share. Whether by the water or under the hood of a car, he was always eager to pass along random facts about classic cars—his other great love. He poured the same devotion into restoring cars, tending to his home, and spending precious time in the pool, where he patiently taught his grandchildren how to swim. But above all else, his greatest love and truest passion were his grandchildren, who filled his life with boundless happiness and purpose.

Even as life took him far, he never forgot his roots. He remained close with his childhood lifelong friends, regularly spending time with them at a body shop in Torreón, where they would gather, laugh, and reminisce for hours, sharing stories of their youth and keeping their brotherhood alive. The friendships he nurtured over a lifetime were a testament to his loyalty, his warmth, and his ability to bring joy to those around him.

When God was choosing grandfathers, He truly outdid Himself with Bernardo. He wasn’t just a grandpa—he was the greatest grandpa, a source of unwavering strength and warmth. His legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will live on through the lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished forever.

Bernardo was preceded in death by his parents, Bernardo Sandoval and Librada Salcido, as well as his brother, Humberto Sandoval.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Martha M. Sandoval, and his loving children: Bernardo Sandoval, Tony Larios Sandoval (Rachel), Ileana Esquinca (Hector), and Daniela Sandoval (Daniel Garcia). His greatest pride, his cherished grandchildren, include Celeste Sandoval, Alyssa Sandoval, Roberto Castruita, and Hector H. Esquinca Jr., Delilah Garcia, Dianey Garcia, Daniel Garcia Jr., and Frankie Garcia.

He also leaves behind his beloved sisters, Elvira, Martha, Colaty, and Betty Sandoval, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and his lifelong childhood friends, who will forever remember the laughter and memories they shared at the body shop in Torreón.

Bernardo taught us what it means to be strong, to work hard, and to love fiercely. Though the days we shared with him have come to an end, his love will live on in our hearts forever. It is painful to say Happy Birthday in Heaven instead of celebrating with him here, just as it was meant to be.

Rest in peace, Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Brother, and Friend. Your story, your lessons, and your love will never be forgotten. Until we meet again. ❤️

The family will be receiving guests on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, where a rosary will be recited at 7:00 pm. Cremation will be held at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are by Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services, 1320 Trey Dr., Laredo, Texas 78041 (956) 723-3611. For your convenience, you may leave your condolences to the family online at www.freddickey.com

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