Michael M. Sandoval

Michael M. Sandoval, 60, returned to Heaven on Friday, February 2, 2018 with his family by his side. He was born on March 26, 1957 in Espanola, NM to Michael Anthony and Corine Lyola (Cordova) Sandoval. He attended the US Air Force Academy which began his lifelong career of public service to others. During Mr. Sandoval's career with the Albuquerque Police Department, he served in many capacities: detective of many units, firearms instructor at the Police Academy, and most citizens will remember him as "McGruff" with CrimeStoppers. He served 14 years with the New Mexico Attorney General's Office. Retirement did not keep him from working. He had been rehired as a Firearms Instructor at the academy. Mr. Sandoval was quite the aficionado of firearms. He enjoyed studying each element and making sure his students were knowledgeable and safe. Most recently, he completed a personal goal of becoming a chaplain with the Rio Rancho Police Department. He brought such comfort to public servants and citizens alike. Serving others was the very essence of his being.

Mr. Sandoval's hobby was life and living it to the fullest. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved the outdoors, hunting, and cars. He had the curiosity of a child and was always in learning mode. He truly was "Inspector Gadget."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Corine Sandoval; and a brother, Martin Sandoval. He is survived by his wife, Linda (Moreau) Sandoval, of Albuquerque, NM; son, Ryan Sandoval and fiancee, Amber, of Albuquerque, NM; stepsons, Chris Schroeder and wife, Kelly, of Tijeras, NM, and Thomas Jaramillo and partner, Shelby, of Albuquerque, NM; his precious grandchildren, Connor and Evelyn Schroeder, and was anxiously awaiting the birth of a baby girl, Riley Nicole; siblings, James Sandoval and wife, Tina, of Espanola, NM, and Jeannette Gerk and husband, Stacy, of Farmington, NM.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, February 9, 2018 at Calvary Chapel Rio Rancho, 138 Frontage Road NE, Rio Rancho.