Cipriano Martinez

Cipriano J. Martinez, a lifelong resident of Los Luceros, New Mexico, passed away on June 13th, 2024, at the age of ninety-five, surrounded by his family.

Cipriano was an avid farmer who understood the ability to work the land was a gift from God, never to be wasted. Though his gardens grew smaller with age, he never failed to harvest abundant fruits and vegetables. He enjoyed working until the day he died and greeted everyone with a cheerful and characteristic smile. After a lengthy career at Los Alamos National Laboratory, he began doing woodwork, including religious works of art. Cipriano loved to read, with western stories being his favorite.

Cipriano was a man of deep faith and enjoyed praying with his wife every day. He had a unique relationship with God based on a modest belief to accomplish daily tasks and treat everyone with respect. He took special pride in his family, who he nurtured every time he interacted with them. He was fortunate enough to live to see his Great-Great Grandchildren. He passed volumes of wisdom to all his family with a simple and joyful approach to life, family, and faith.

Cipriano is survived by his wife of 73 years, Carlota, and his two daughters Elizabeth Romero (Eddie) and Marie Atencio (Julian). 

He was preceded in death by a son Cippy Martinez. Cipriano relished time with his four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and four Great-Great grandchildren.

Cipriano was the last surviving child of Max and Mercedes Martinez. His siblings were Efren (Angie), Ben (Alice), Max (Evangeline), Robert (Marcella), Loyola (Leo), Nora (Sam), and Peter (Isabel).

His most favorite activity was being with family and hearing about their adventures, challenges, and joys. It is the small conversations his family had with him each day that they will miss the most.

A Public Visitation will be at 9:30 am on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at San Juan de Baustista in Ohkay Owingeh, NM, Rosary to follow at 10:00 am, with Mass to follow at 10:30 am. Burial will take place at La Villita Cemetery.

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