Jose Manuel Martinez

Jose Manuel Martinez - 96 years young - our cherished and adored Second Father, Grandfather, M&M, Tio, Chelo, and Our Friend! Jose Manuel was promoted to Heaven on October 21, 2022 surrounded by his loving family and angels in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was born on March 27, 1926 in Parkview, New Mexico. He was incredibly blessed to live a beautiful and full life. 

Jose Manuel served in the United States Navy during World War II. In 1949, shortly after returning from the war, he earned his Plumbing License in Kansas City, Missouri. After receiving his license and working in the Plumbing Industry, M&M Plumbing came to fruition. Manuel became a staple in the community and served many families with his Plumbing expertise. He took tremendous pride in his work and had an incredibly strong work ethic. In addition to his business, he was also employed by Johnson Controls in Los Alamos, New Mexico for several years.

In 1970, Jose Manuel met his beautiful Sarah. For the next forty four years, life would be filled with true Love and many nights of dancing until her departure to heaven in 2014. He was a true outdoorsman and wherever you saw M&M, Sarah would be right by his side. Fishing, hunting, camping or just taking a drive to the mountains were among his favorite activities. He was lovingly cared for the last few years by Geraldine Maestas-Garcia and Ignacio (Nacho) Maestas, who were like his own children. Most recently, he relocated with his granddaughter Nina to Scottsdale, Arizona.

Jose Manuel is preceded in death by his parents, Senobio and Bernardita Martinez, brother Jose Martinez; Sisters Albinita Martinez, Anita Trujillo and Ermelinda Apadron; his true Love and Companion of 44 years Sarah S. Maestas, Sarah's children who were like his own; Benny James Maestas, Leon Maestas, Jerry Maestas, Ignacio Maestas and Geraldine Maestas-Garcia; grandchildren Adam Maestas and great-grandchild Lena Marie Maestas.

Jose Manuel is survived by his grandchildren; Nina (Donald) Gallegos, Benito (Jamie) Maestas, Marissa (Adam) Mueller, Mario (Selena) Maestas, Shawna (Josh) McKenzie, and Adrian (Stephanie) Maestas. Sister-in-Law(s); MaryAgnes (Andres) Gallegos and Sylvia Salazar; Brother-in-law Arthur Salazar; 16 Great Grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Rosary will be recited on Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at Santa Cruz de la Canada (Holy Cross Church) at 12:00 pm followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 pm. Interment burial will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

His grandson's and great grandson's will take Jose Manuel to his final resting place:  Jairus Gallegos, Jorinthian Gallegos, Donald Gallegos, Mario Maestas, Benito Maestas and Adrian Maestas. Honorary Pallbearers are:  Joe Archuleta, Andres Gallegos, Nina Gallegos, Jaia Gallegos, Marissa Mueller, and Shawna McKenzie.

The family of Jose Manuel Martinez has entrusted the gentle care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM. (505)747-7477 www.devargasfunerals.com