Mario Sanchez

Mario A. Sanchez Salinas, age 19, of Redwood Falls, passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024, at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Redwood Falls with full Military Honors. A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2024 from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m., with a Parish Prayer Service at 8 p.m. at the Nelson-Hillestad Funeral Home in Redwood Falls. Visitation will continue on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., at the church. The Mass of Christian Burial Service will be live streamed on St. Catherine’s Catholic Church Website.

Arrangements are with Nelson-Hillestad Funeral and Cremation Service of Redwood Falls. E-mail condolences may be sent via www.nelson-hillestad.com.

Mario Adrian Sanchez Salinas was born on January 17, 2005, in Ontario, Oregon, Mario lived a life filled with joy, love, and an infectious smile that touched the hearts of all who knew him. Education was a significant part of Mario's life as he graduated from Redwood Valley High School in 2024. Mario then embarked on a career at Northstar building houses in Redwood Falls since 2023.
 
Outside of work and school, Mario found solace in his favorite hobby - playing soccer. Whether it was on the field or watching a game, soccer brought him immense happiness and allowed him to showcase his talent and sportsmanship.
 
In addition to his work and hobbies, Mario also proudly served in the Minnesota National Guard. His dedication to serving his country reflected his selflessness and courage.
 
Mario's warm personality endeared him to everyone he met. He had a special gift for spreading happiness wherever he went, making friends easily with his kind heart and genuine nature. Mario's contagious smile lit up any room and left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.
 
Mario will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his loving mother, Lionela Villegas; cherished siblings Desirae Villegas, Zoe, Ileana, Genevieve, Jonael, Leilani Castelan; devoted grandfather Lionel Villegas; grandmother, Sylvia Salinas  as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who held a special place in his heart.
 
Though Mario has left this world too soon, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace knowing that he brought immense joy and love to all who were blessed to have him in their lives.

 Blessed be his memory.