With great sadness, his family announces the passing of Samuel Pallanez Cordero of El Paso, who was a devoted man to his family and to the many he loved, at the age of 66, on March 10. Sam, a man whose life was defi ned by the steady work of his hands, the strength of character, leadership, and kindness of his heart, leaves behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of many in El Paso, Alpine, and across Texas.

Sam spent a long and respected career in the oil and gas industry. He coached and mentored youth and college baseball players at Sul Ross State University. Later in life, he turned his passion for construction into his own business. He didn’t just build structures; he built foundations for others to stand and grow on. Sam was the “first call” for many in his life. He was the steady voice on the other end of the line when a check engine light came on, whether that light was on a car’s dashboard, a new construction plan, or in a loved one’s heart. His advice was solid and sound, and his ability to listen was his greatest gift to those he loved.

Sam’s heart always belonged to the baseball diamond. He was the first of two high school baseball players in El Paso drafted by a professional baseball team in 1978. His love for the game stayed with him throughout his life, demonstrated in the grit, teamwork, and passion he poured into being a son, brother, dad, and grandpa. Above all else, Sam loved fiercely, finding his greatest joy in the presence of his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, sisters, and the family he deeply loved.

Sam is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Mary Pallanez Cordero, and his father, Jesse Cordero. He leaves his children, Gabriela Cordero, Samuel-David Cordero, Stephan Urias, Regina Wong (Erwyn), grandchildren Beaux, Baeya, Mateo, Kamila, Rogelio, sisters Sandra Urias (Fernando), Dian Grado (Robert), Virginia Cordero, Jessica Cordero (Todd), nieces and nephews, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The most holy Rosary was recited at Alpine Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, March 17. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, March 18, at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church. Afterwards, he was laid to rest at Holy Angels Cemetery in Alpine.

Though our hearts are broken, we are comforted in knowing our beloved Sam is resting in peace and safe in heaven.