Rubén E. Sandoval

Rubén Sandoval Moya was born on August 2, 1932 in the city of San Antonio, Chile. Growing up in San Antonio, a small coastal town, one of Rubén’s favorite pastimes was watching the boats come in and out of the port, from the small local fishing boats to the large commercial ships, he found it all fascinating. There began his passion for ships that would last a lifetime, determine his career and take him from his beloved small town on travels throughout Chile, Brazil, Europe and eventually the USA. He reveled in the new experiences each country brought, and a piece of each place lived within him throughout his life.

Rubén was a driven student, studying naval architecture in Chile, and later Denmark and Germany. When he was offered additional opportunities in Texas he did not hesitate. It was 1970 and he had no intention of remaining in the US permanently, but he grew to love life in Seattle and found it the best way to provide for his large family including his 7 children.

Ever the observer, he was often a quiet man of few words but he was enchanted by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and they, by him. He loved to spend time immersed in their world, sharing music, books, poems and technology. All the while encouraging them to learn new things and pursue their dreams. It was with his children and their children that you often saw the playful and sometimes silly Rubén, he would teach you fractions by eating pizza--gobbling down a piece and showing you (literally) the difference between a whole and ⅞. Magical money appearing (or disappearing) from behind an ear. Doughnuts for dinner, why not? Countless hours watching, playing and coaching futból (soccer).

Anyone who knew Rubén knows that what he liked, he loved, and pursued with near obsession. Whether it was the mastery of his career, photography, books, music, futból (soccer), technology or his family he dedicated his time and efforts to those things.

Rubén is survived by many who loved him, his wife Mercedes, children, Mundo, Sol, Marcela, Raquel, Ester, Mercedes, Alex, his grandchildren; Rubén, Joaquín, Javiera, Mila, John, Felipe, Federico, Kika, Mario, Nicolás, Markus, Michael and Drew, his great grandchildren Lilyana, Lucyana, Magnus and Emilia and his sisters Ines, Luisa and Luz.

Rubén leaves a strong legacy to family and friends, never stop learning, calmness, persistence and perseverance pay off and keep care of your wandering, wondering and wonderful mind!