Eric Sandoval, Former Marine, military contractor dies suddenly at home in Covina

SGV Tribune

COVINA – After multiple tours of duty as a scout sniper and a stint as a contractor in war-torn Iraq and Afghanistan, a former Marine died unexpectedly at home last week.

Eric Sandoval, 30, of Covina had come home from the Middle East in October to help his wife, who had knee surgery, according to a family friend. After a week of head aches and neck pain, Sandoval died suddenly November 12.

He had been working for contractor MVM Inc. in Iraq.

“It was such a shock,” said sister-in-law Jamie York. “Nothing raised a red flag to anybody.”

The cause of Sandoval’s death is being investigated by L.A. County coroner’s office, York said, and the family is wondering if it’s a result of possible brain injury from a bomb blast he survived while a serving as a soldier.

Friends and family described Sandoval as family-oriented, smart, hard-working and loving.

“He was like a father to so many people,” said Nancy Muniz, a family friend. “He took a parental role for his family.”

Sandoval’s wife Sandy said in an email he helped people less fortunate by doing things, such as building homes in Guam.

“Perhaps his biggest gift was the ability to bring family and friends together. Having him home meant barbecues, family, and many laughs,” she wrote.

Sandoval graduated early from Pomona High School and enlisted in the Marine Corps at 17, his family said.

He also earned a degree in accounting and a Master’s degree in business administration, Muniz said.

“He was like an onion – he was so multidimensional,” York said. “His laugh could make anyone smile.”

Sandoval is survived by his wife, Sandy, his 6-year-old son Isaiah, and siblings Robert, Danny, Gabby, Alejandra, Jonathan and Steven.

A viewing and rosary from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday and funeral services at 9 a.m. on Monday at Forest Lawn in Covina.