Martin Antonio

Sandoval Sr.

Martin Antonio Sandoval Sr., born December 23, 1972, passed away on September 19, 2026.

A graduate of Carl Hayden High School, Martin built his working life through dedication and perseverance. He began as a warehouse worker and, through hard work, earned a promotion to become a truck driver with T-Force, formerly UPS. That steady determination reflected the way he approached life: with commitment, grit, and a willingness to do what needed to be done.

Martin was a man of big personality and even bigger heart. He was the life of the party, a storyteller who could fill a room with laughter, and his infectious laugh will be remembered by all who knew him. He loved his family deeply and was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone in need of help. Through every up and down in life, he remained present for the people he loved, always there for his mother and always there for the kids.

He embraced life with enthusiasm and unmistakable style. Martin loved going to the casino and betting on just about anything, including horse and dog races, a pastime that earned him the nickname “the Mush” among his friends. Craps was his favorite casino game, and in his early 20s, one of his friends even built him a craps table, a gift that spoke to the joy he brought to those around him. He collected Marvel comic books, loved every Marvel movie that came out, and treasured taking his children to see them. He also loved old country music and looked forward each year to the annual guys camping trip. An amazing artist, Martin shared that gift with his son, passing along both talent and connection through creativity.

Among his greatest joys was being a grandfather. He was, by all accounts, a deeply proud one, and that pride shone brightly in the way he loved and celebrated his grandchildren.

Martin is survived by his mother, Cecilia Sandoval; his brother, Richard Sandoval Jr.; his sisters, Christina Sandoval and Martha Sandoval and her husband, Manuel; and his brother, Gilbert Sandoval and his wife, Iesha. He also leaves behind his daughter, Marissa Sandoval and Aizik Andrade Sr., and his son, Martin Sandoval Jr. He is survived as well by his step-son, Joseph Yoshito, and by Vivianne Yoshito, the mother of his children.

His family continued to grow in ways that brought him enormous happiness. He leaves his grandchildren, Luna Sandoval, Aaliyah Andrade, and Aizik Andrade Jr., as well as his step-grandchildren, Gabe, Aaliyah, Joseph, and Julian. He is also lovingly remembered by his goddaughters, Salina Corona, Desirae Gutierrez, and Nikki Padilla. Each of them carries forward memories of his humor, his generosity, and the unmistakable warmth of his presence.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Sandoval Sr., and his nephew, Andrew Corona.

Visitation & Memorial service will be held on October 15, 2026, Visitation 10:00 am and Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. at Menke Funeral & Cremation Center, 12420 N 103rd Ave, Sun City, Arizona 85351.

Martin Antonio Sandoval Sr. will be remembered for his laughter, his stories, his loyalty, and the love he gave so freely. His presence filled a room, and his absence will be deeply felt. Yet in the memories he created, the family he cherished, and the joy he brought into everyday life, his spirit endures.