Levi Martinez

Levi Martinez, 87, a resident of Santa Cruz, was called to his heavenly home on Friday, September 30, 2016 with his family by his side.  Levi was respected by many and cherished by his loving family.   His passing will leave a great void in our lives. Levi was born in his home in Petaca, NM as the youngest son of 8.  Levi was closest to his mother, Ramoncita, and joined the U.S. Army at 17 with her blessing.  After serving his country, he returned to Santa Cruz, worked in Los Alamos and the Nevada Test Site.  He then met the love of his life, Margaret.  After their marriage he enlisted as police officer for the City of Espanola and later joined the Santa Fe County Sherriff’s Department, where he proudly served for 25 years and retired at the rank of Major. Levi and Margaret raised their four daughters, Myra, Debbie, Geri and Ann Margaret and one son, Levi Jr.  He loved his grandchildren, Billy, Eric, Ryan, Bryan, Alicia, Andres, Cruz and Amelia as well as his great-grandsons, Mario and Matthew.  Levi had a passion for farming and ranching.  He baled hay across the county.  His annual trips for firewood and hay became family outings.  An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing and hunting.  But Levi’s favorite place was in the home he and Margaret built, sitting at the head of the table or in his favorite chair, watching his family grow and thrive. Family time was something he looked forward to especially on Saturday and Sunday mornings when the entire family gathered around him for mom’s breakfast and coffee, sharing stories and catching up.  Levi served his country, his community but most importantly loved his family.  Levi was a man among men, the last of a generation that will never be replaced.  His strength, kindness and unconditional love are treasures we hold in our hearts and ideals we strive to achieve in our lives. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at La Iglesia de Santa Cruz de la Canada in Santa Cruz, with a burial to follow at 3:00 p.m. at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. The family of Levi 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

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