Robert Martinez

Robert H. Martinez, 86, Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Brother and Friend passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2021.

Born on April 13, 1934 in Espanola, New Mexico Robert began life’s journey as the eldest of eight siblings.

Graduation from the Espanola High School was followed by three years of service to his country in the US Army, most of those years spent in Europe.

After his return to the Valley, his heart was captured by a young Alicia Rodriguez who became his life partner on June 21, 1958.  Together they welcomed three children they adored, raising them at the family home in La Mesilla.  Some of their most treasured memories are annual family vacations, trips that are well documented in the many picture albums still leafed through today at family get togethers.  Grandchildren followed and Robert embraced the role of Grandfather, loving each and every one with his whole heart.  Five great-grandchildren were added to the family and he was a blessed man.

Retired from the Gas Company of New Mexico at 58 years old, Robert turned to public service.  He was a board member of the Jemez Mountains Electric Coop, dedicating 22 ½ years as Trustee, served as the Rio Arriba County Democratic Party Vice-Chair for a time and offered tireless support to many Democratic candidates.

Though he was not a teacher by profession like his mother, he was a teacher throughout life to family and friends.  He taught us the importance of generosity, kindness, love and support of his community.  A man of few words but every word came from the heart.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Alice R. Martinez; children, Eva Montoya and husband Frank, Robert and wife Charlene, Ralph and wife Rebecca; his grandchildren Joseph Beauregard, Stefani Martinez-Leyba (James), Frank Montoya Jr. (Christina), Estevan Martinez, Jessica Martinez, Cody Chavez, Tito Wood, Ernesto Martinez and Jeremiah Montoya; great grandchildren Sean Pacheco, Marques Martinez, Mateo Martinez, Frankie-Jean Montoya and Amanda Montoya; sisters Carol Lovato (Lee) and Hilda Roybal; brother Jose Martinez (Jeannie); sisters-in-law Christine Mascareñas and Alice Valdez Martinez; brother-in-law Manuel Rodriguez (Luisa); and best friend and neighbor, Nick Naranjo.

Welcoming Robert in a loving embrace are those that passed before him; parents Ramon Martinez and Elvira Lopez Martinez; brothers Ramon Martinez and Ernesto Martinez; sisters Lea McClure and Josie Stone; parents-in-law Enrique Rodriguez and Victoriana Trujillo Rodriguez; brothers-in-law Amabilis Mascareñas, Guy Stone, Art McClure and Vanner Holmes; sister-in-law Eloisa Martinez; Godparents Maggie and Frank Bustos; and his infant grandson Jason Martinez who he is now holding in his arms.

A private visitation for immediate family was held on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 in the Chapel of Peace at DeVargas Funeral Home.  Services were held at La Iglesia de Santa Cruz de la Cañada on Friday, April 9, 2021. The rosary began at 12:30 p.m. with Mass at 1:00 p.m.  Due to COVID restrictions, attendees were limited to family and close family friends.  Services can be viewed on Facebook - Santacruz Espanola or YouTube - Santacruz Parish Espanola.  Burial will take place at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on April 27, 2021 at 1:30PM with Military Honors.  Prayers of Commendation will be offered by Fr. John Plans, SHF of Holy Cross Catholic Church.

The family of Robert H. Martinez has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.