Vaiola Maria Sandoval, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on February 22, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on August 18, 1950, Vaiola dedicated her life to uplifting those around her through her kind spirit and infectious smile.

From 1977 to 1997, Vaiola spent 20 remarkable years working for the school district, where she touched the lives of many students and families. She spent eight years as a teachers aid with kindergarten at Pershing School and contributed 12 years to the special education department across various schools. Her commitment to education reflected her deep love for children and her belief in their potential.

A graduate of Rawlins High School in 1968, Vaiola lived her life with an unwavering zest for joy. She was not just a teachers aid; she was a beacon of love and light, always ready to entertain and cook for those she cherished. Her hearty encouragement and uplifting spirit made her a cherished friend to many. It was said that anyone fortunate enough to interact with her felt the genuine love that radiated from her soul.

Vaiola had various hobbies that brought her joy, including gambling, crocheting, and quilting. She found immense happiness in spending time with her special group of friends, lovingly known as the "Golden Girls."

Vaiola's legacy is marked by her profound commitment to kindness and generosity, which extended beyond her professional life and into every interaction she made. She leaves behind a beautiful lineage that showcases her love: her daughters Nanette and Dean Morris and Arlene and Matt Bocanegra; her son Joe and Izzy Sandoval; and her grandchildren, John and Tania Bergquist, Jared Sandoval, Jordan Sandoval, Katy Gonzales, Dakota and Jazman Gonzales, Josiah Sandoval, Heaven Sandoval, Michael and Sabrina Bergquist, Tristan Bocanegra, and Michala Morris. Additionally, she is survived by great-grandchildren Brylee Kenworthy, Raul Melendez, Luna Melendez, June Sandoval, Lukas, Olivia, and Sienna Bergquist, Trystan and Myla Gonzales, and Hudson Brower.

She is survived by her siblings: Roger and Sandy Martinez, Bert (Maxine) Martinez, Leo (Linda) Martinez, Sam and Helen Martinez, Lloyd and Janice Martinez, Johnny (Aimie) Martinez, James and April Martinez, Phillip and Brandie Martinez, Selma and Gary Klein, and Jeanette and Horace Drayton, along with numerous nieces and nephews who adored her.

Vaiola was predeceased by her loving husband of 47 years Joseph Melvin Sandoval, her parents Gilbert and Agapita (Cruz) Martinez, her brother Herman Martinez, and her in-laws Ted and Eufelia Sandoval, and brothers-in-laws Leo Sandoval, and Teddy Sandoval.

A Rosary and Vigil for the Deceased will be held on February 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on February 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM, both at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, located at 219 W. Pine St., Rawlins, Wyoming. Following the Mass, she will be laid to rest at Rawlins Cemetery. A reception will follow the burial at the Jeffrey Center.

As we remember Vaiola Maria Sandoval, we celebrate the legacy of love, kindness, and dedication she left behind, especially to St. Joseph's Catholic Church and its funeral dinners, where her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched in life. Her beautiful soul will be dearly missed. When you continue to say her name, you are not reminding us that she died, but reminding us that she truly lived.