Rudy Martinez

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, stepfather, and grandfather, Rudy R. Martinez, who passed away at the age of 78, on April 16, 2025, at his home in El Rito, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Rudy was born on July 17, 1946, to Jose Romulo and Ramoncita Martinez, who preceded him in death. He honorably served his country in the Army in South Korea, and after his service, Rudy dedicated much of his life to his community, working as a firefighter in Los Alamos and at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. He also volunteered at the El Rito Fire Department, where he contributed to the safety of his community. Rudy was also passionate about working the ranch, where he found great joy in the land he loved.

Rudy was a man of immense strength, kindness, and devotion. He was a cherished husband to his wife Yolanda Martinez, with whom he shared 26 years of love and companionship. He was a loving father to his daughters Sandy Devargas and her husband Adrian, and Andrea Martinez; along with son, Dwayne Martinez and his wife Camille Martinez. He also leaves behind his beloved stepchildren: Nathan Velasquez and his wife Liza Velasquez, Dominic Velasquez, and three cherished grandchildren: Tish Velasquez, Adriana Devargas, and Abrielle Martinez. Rudy was also preceded in death by his sister Tila Vigil, and his brother Joe Canuto Martinez.

Rudy’s legacy lives on through his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and the many family members and friends who will always remember him. He is survived by his loving sisters: Lupe Moya, Bennie Vigil, Eva Martinez, Dorothy Ochoa and her husband Henry, Teresa Hathaway, JoAnn Martinez; and his brother Felipe Martinez, sister in law Lobie Martinez and many nieces and nephews.

Rudy was known for his unwavering love for his family, his commitment to his community, and his enduring strength. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Giving Program and all the nurses and aides who cared for Rudy with such compassion and kindness during his final days.

A Rosary will be recited on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 7:00 pm at San Juan de Nepomuceno Catholic Church in El Rito, NM. A 

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11:00 am at San Juan de Nepomuceno Catholic Church in El Rito, NM, with a reception to follow at El Rito Elementary School. 

A Burial will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 10:30 am.

The following will serve as Pallbearers: Mario Baca, Kevin Martinez, Ernie Junior Vigil, Juaquin Yanez, Mike Martin, and Adrian Devargas. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Da Costa Leal, Sean Wisecarver and Tony Jaramillo.

May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers they would like a donation to fire departments.

The family of Rudy R. Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.