Donald A. Sandoval, 64, a resident of Ojo Caliente, and former longtime resident of Las Vegas, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2012, at the University of New Mexico Hospital with his brothers and special friend and companion at his side.He was born on Sept. 15, 1948, to the late Wilfred A. and Filomena (Mena) Sandoval, in Las Vegas. He worked for New Mexico Highlands University for many years until he began his own construction company, known as Desert Pine Construction. He was preceded in death by his parents Wilfred and Mena Sandoval and grandson Jonathan Trujillo.He is survived by three children; daughters: Dawn Encinias and husband Michael of Rio Rancho, N.M., Anita Sandoval of Las Vegas, and son: Donald "Pepe" Sandoval and wife Karmen of Anton Chico, N.M.; grandchildren: Ricky, Kevin, Donovyn, Dyllan, Joshua, Mario, Leiah and Fabian; brothers: Wilfred Sandoval Jr. and wife Fran of Albuquerque, Steve Sandoval and wife Laurie of Las Vegas, William Sandoval and wife Valerie of Las Vegas; special friend: Isabel Troncoso; nieces and nephews: Sarah, Christina, Skeeter, Jessica, Shannon, Steven, Jaime and Samantha; Uncle John, Aunt Alice, Aunt Socorro, Aunt Caroline and numerous cousins.Donald worked in the construction business where he met many of his friends and acquaintances. He enjoyed involving himself with various forms of art work such as ceramics, jewelry making, building and collecting hot rod model cars. He also continued to rebuild and restore his 1941 Ford pickup and he spent numerous hours of enjoyment with his three pet dogs. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter before his health issues became a concern. He was a person with a heart of gold and personality to match. There was never a dull moment when in his presence and his sense of humor was second to none.A rosary will be recited 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday from Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. Mass will follow at 9 a.m. Interment will take place following the mass at the San Jose Cemetery, Las Vegas.Serving as pallbearers are Skeeter Sandoval, Steven Sandoval, Joseph "Salo" Gutierrez, Bob Roybal, Lawrence Sandoval and Tommy Baca.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home; 801 Douglas Avenue, Las Vegas; 425-6551.For online condolences, visit www.nelsonfuneralhomelv.com