Leo Michael Sarate

Leo Michael Sarate, known to all who loved him simply as Michael, passed away on April 5, 2026 with his wife and sister by his side. Born on June 26, 1962, Michael lived a life defined by service, sacrifice, and deep devotion to his family and country.
Michael proudly served in the United States Army from 1989 to 1993, achieving the rank of Specialist (E4). He was assigned to the 731st Military Intelligence Battalion at Schofield Barracks in Oahu, Hawaii, where he served as a 74D Information Systems Operator. His work was at the heart of signals intelligence and electronic warfare in the Indo Pacific theater, providing critical intelligence support for U.S. Army Pacific and joint operations across the region.

His service was anything but ordinary. During Christmas of 1989, while many families were gathered at home, Michael was deployed to Panama as part of Operation Just Cause. There, he supported wartime intelligence missions that helped guide decisions on the ground. He went on to serve in Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Restore Hope. Michael was proud to be counted among Cold War veterans who stood watch during a pivotal time in world history. He often said simply, "I loved being in the army," and those who knew him understood the depth and sincerity behind those words.

For his service, Michael was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Rifle M-16 Qualification Badge, and the Army Lapel Button.

Following his military service, Michael attended New Mexico Tech and continued his career in government contract work with Honeywell and Lightpath Technologies, where he was known for his reliability, knowledge, and strong work ethic. He also worked as a gate guard at the annual Tumbleweed Auction each spring and fall, a role he took seriously and genuinely enjoyed, forming friendships and connections over the years.
Outside of his work, Michael found joy in the simple and meaningful parts of life. He loved barbequing and was known for making the best taco burgers. He enjoyed four wheeling, going to the shooting range, and collecting knives, a lifelong passion that began when he was just five years old. He loved music and dancing and would often say he learned his best moves from his mom.

He was an avid sports fan who loved soccer and joined the New Mexico Tech soccer team when he was in High School. He was a devoted fan of New Mexico United and the San Antonio Spurs. One of his most meaningful recent memories was attending a New Mexico United game with his family on his birthday in 2025, where he was recognized on the scoreboard.

Michael also had a deep and lasting connection to San Miguel Church, where he volunteered for many years alongside his father. That time reflected his quiet faith, strong sense of family, and willingness to give of himself without seeking recognition.

More than anything, Michael was a family man. He adored his daughters and was incredibly proud of each of them. He loved his grandchildren deeply and found great joy in being with them. He shared a special and close bond with his nephew Aaron, a relationship that meant a great deal to him throughout his life. Michael had a natural warmth with children and simply loved being around them; they brought out his gentlest and most joyful side.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Leonce "Leo" Sarate, and his mother, Rita Arvizu.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jolinda Chavez; his daughters, Autumn Rose (Sarate) Murillo (Gabriel Murillo), Amber Elecia Sarate (Jacob Elizondo), and Trinity Chavez (Mili Baca); his cherished grandchildren, Luke and Rosie Elizondo, and Wynter Murillo; his sister, Elaine Sárate Richardson; his nephew, Aaron Richardson; his niece, Noelle Richardson (Eric Joseph); his grandnephew and grandniece, Wesley and Kiera Joseph; and his former brother in law, Harry Richardson, whom Michael loved as a brother and remained a close and cherished part of his life.

In his final days, it was a comfort to witness the outpouring of care surrounding him. The doctors, nurses, and staff at the VA who had cared for him over the years all took the time to come and say goodbye, a reflection of the impact he made. He was a lifelong practical joker, and his humor was one of the things that most endeared him to the medical staff who cared for him over the years at the VA Medical Center. The family is deeply grateful to all who visited, called, and offered their love and support.

Michael gave his country quiet, courageous service in places most will never know, doing work that could not always be spoken of. Entrusted with a Top Secret security clearance, he carried that responsibility with integrity and discretion. He came home and gave his family the same steady, faithful devotion.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Michael's life will be held at San Miguel Catholic Church in Socorro, New Mexico, on Friday, May 22 at 11:30 am. Interment will be held at Santa Fe National Cemetery on May 26 at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Michael's memory to support veterans through the VA New Mexico Fisher House.
Secure online donations may be made at:
https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/52238064
(Please select New Mexico VA Healthcare System, General Purpose/Veterans Needs and in the additional information section include For Albuquerque Fisher House.)
Donations by check may be mailed to:
Attn: Fisher House, Bldg. 85
1501 San Pedro SE
Albuquerque, NM 87108

Leo's arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where an online guest register is available at www.noblin.com