Esther Alicia Sanoja

At the families request, if you are planning on attending services please respond to Lucy Sanoja (702) 600-7291

Esther Alicia Sanoja, beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2024, surrounded by family after her years-long battle with dementia.

Esther was born on October 1, 1957, in Oxnard, California, to Francisco Castro Vera & Rosa Felix Vera and was one of five sisters—Yolanda, Elvira, Rosela, and Susie. Esther spent her early years in Oxnard before settling in Thousand Oaks, California with husband Arturo Sr., where they raised their five children -- Arturo, Jr., David, Andrew, Daniel, and Lucy. Eventually, they moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where they spent their later years surrounded by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Esther’s life was marked by her devotion to her church and community, characterized by unparalleled kindness and generosity. She was very involved in the church, singing in the choir, serving as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts, and happily fulfilling numerous callings over the years. Esther taught English and Spanish and shared her sewing skills, creating clothes for church members and teaching the craft. Over a span of 40 years, she and Arturo Sr. welcomed more than 30 foreign exchange students into their home. They also established a successful catering business, Sunset Caterers, which frequently provided jobs for the church’s youth. Esther’s eagerness to help others was unmatched. 

Esther also lived a life full of adventure. Yosemite National Park held a special place in her heart where she climbed Half Dome—a 16-mile roundtrip hike—more than 15 times. She also experienced the thrill of skydiving twice with her husband, children and grandchildren. Her adventurous spirit and love of travel brought her to several different countries, where she embraced diverse cultures and sought out new experiences. Esther's life was a testament to the beauty of embracing every moment. 

Esther is survived by her eternal companion of 50 years, Arturo Sanoja, Sr., their five children, and 21 grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

Esther’s legacy of love, service, and adventure will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, her love and memories will live on forever in our hearts.