Born and raised in beautiful Chimayo, NM, Albert C. Martinez (Salty), was a man whose life was defined by family, community, hard work, and a willingness to help others. Family was the most important thing in his life. He carried with him the values he learned growing up - humility, generosity, faith, hard work, and the importance of taking care of one another.

Albert would eventually meet his soulmate, Patricia. Their love was a beautiful friendship. They married in 1981 and they were blessed with two sons, Steven and Alex. They were the center of his world, and he cherished the life and memories they built together.

Throughout his life, Albert was a hardworking and dedicated man. He worked as a laborer at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and later worked at La Mesita Ranch in Pojoaque as Maintenance Manager. He eventually retired as a bus driver from Espanola Valley Public Schools. For the children and families he served, he was more than a school bus driver; he was a familiar and trusted face in the community, someone who helped ensure that children made it safely to and from school each day.

His love for his community was also reflected in his service as Mayordomo of the Acequia Del Distrito. He took great pride in this responsibility and understood the importance of protecting a tradition that had been passed down through generations. His priority was to make sure that parciantes received their fair share of water for their fields.

Some of Albert’s happiest days were spent surrounded by his family and friends, working together and enjoying the simple traditions that meant so much to him. He enjoyed raising his animals and working the family fields alongside his brothers, nephews, and cousins. On a beautiful day, he enjoyed getting together with everyone for a traditional matanza—sharing hard work, laughter, stories, and good food. These were more than just gatherings; they were opportunities to create memories. Albert found great joy in those days, surrounded by the people that were a special part of his life.

Albert was greeted in Heaven by his loving wife, Patricia, and son, Steven; his parents Manuel and Carmelita Martinez; brother Amado; sisters Lucille and Veronica; Padrino Andres Salazar; Godson, Jamie; Nieces Danielle and Marie, and brothers-in-law Florentino, Arsenio, and David.

He is survived by his loving son, Alex (Donita & Lucas); his brother Manuel (Lourdes); his sisters Virgina, Viola, Rose, Connie, Rita (Horacio), Lorraine (Victor), and Berlinda (Mario). Brother-in-law Leroy and Sister-in-law Helen. His Madrina Tia Grace and Godchildren Renee, Carmen, Devin, and Azariah-Stevie; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services are on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Holy Family Church in Chimayo, NM, with a Rosary at 9:00 am, followed by Mass at 10:00 am.

The family of Albert Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  505-747-7477