Ronald Martinez

Ronald Joseph Martinez was born on September 7^th, 1954 and was called home to be with our heavenly father on December 31, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. He was a life-long resident of Cuartelez, NM. There he built a beautiful life which he will forever be remembered by.

Ron was preceded in death by his loving parents Jose E and Aurora Martinez of Cuartelez, brother Larry Martinez, and god-daughter Amanda Archuleta.  Ron is survived by his beautiful wife of 48 years Doreen Martinez, his loving children LouAnna and Ronald Martinez, daughter-in-law Cynthia Martinez, and the Sunshine of his life, his granddaughter, Katelyn Aurora Martinez; Brothers  - Adam Martinez and wife Susan, Mark Martinez,  and Archie Martinez and wife Soledad. God Children – Adam Martinez, Justin Maestas, Adan Martinez, Arthur Martinez Jr, and Manuel Neri.

Ron loved the life he lived and experienced every day to the fullest. His favorite motto was “let me live!”. He did just that until his final hours. Along with his family, he impacted countless people including extended family, friends, neighbors, and fellow artists. 

Ron graduated from Espanola Valley High School in 1972 then went on to study Electronics at Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM.  Shortly after graduation he began a 36 year career at Los Alamos National Laboratory as a research technologist, from which he retired in 2010.

Ron’s ultimate joy in life was his family. With 48 years of a wonderful marriage to his soul mate, along with their two children, daughter in law, and granddaughter they created a life full of love and memories that will last a lifetime. 

Ron had a deep love for our Lord Jesus Christ, his family, and his art.  Ron and Doreen were Esclavos at La Capilla de La Sangre de Christo chapel for over 30 years.  Ron loved to learn and grow in many ways. He was always looking for a new hobby which included fishing, camping, playing golf, bowling, traveling, hiking, and photography. Above all of these things Ron’s favorite was creating his beautiful art work which is known and loved around many homes in our valley, throughout New Mexico along with pieces he donated to churches he loved. He was able to share his love of the Lord through his relief carvings, bultos, and furniture. He was a Spanish Market Artist and a member of the Espanola Valley Arts Council. Anyone who knew Ron knows if you couldn’t find him working in the yard he could always be found in his workshop creating his next piece of art.

He lived his life with love, strength and purpose every day. He will be greatly missed by all left behind. 

Services will be held at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, NM on January 13, 2023.  A visitation will be held at 10 am, with a Rosary to follow at 10:30 am.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 am. Burial will take place at a later date.

Pallbearers will be his godsons and nephews:  Adam Martinez, Justin Maestas, Adan Martinez, Arthur C. Martinez Jr, Manuel Neri, Elias Martinez, Eric Neri, Albert Neri, and Dominic Esquibel.

Honorary pallbearers will be his sunshine Katelyn Martinez and Nicole Gallegos.

The family of Ron has entrusted the care of their beloved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory in the beautiful Espanola, NM.  (505) 747-7477  www.devargasfuneral.com