Leonard Martinez

Leonard L. Martinez, 49, from Velarde, passed away on November 28, 2017, surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Bernardo Valdez, and his paternal grandparents, Silviano and Celina Martinez. Leonard served in the US Air Force and served in Operation Desert Storm. After his safe return he continued to serve in the Army National Guard reserves. Leonard enjoyed good food (especially his mama’s) and a good joke. He gave generously, laughed often and celebrated life. He was always ready for a good (outdoor) adventure, had a big heart full of love and forgiveness and loved his New England Patriots. Mr. Martinez is survived by his children, Steven Martinez of Las Cruces, Kayla Barrera (Ryan), and Jahneah Martinez both of Ohkay Owingeh; grandchildren Alliyah and Yariah Barrera; parents, Leroy and Velma Martinez; sister Carmella ( Andrew) Sanchez; brother, Carlos Martinez; nieces and nephews, Justin and Jonathan Sanchez, Sammaya, Nadiyah and Alyssa Lee Martinez and many other relatives and friends. A rosary will be recited on Thursday, November 30, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Velarde with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:15 p.m. Serving the family as pallbearers will be Eugene, Felix, Elmo, Andrew, and Bruno Valdez, and Andrew Sanchez. The family of Leonard Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477, www.devargasfuneral.com