Raymond J Martinez

Born in Trinidad, CO on October 31, 1939, he was the first son of Juan J. Martinez and Mary E. Martinez. He was born after his sister Carmen Archuletta, and followed by his siblings Clyde Martinez, Bill Martinez, Gene Martinez, Jessie Martinez, Ortie Gonzales, Willie Martinez, Della Martinez, Isabelle Headrick, Evelyn Levin, Rickie Martinez, and John Martinez.

Ray was a life-long hard worker, beginning his career at the age of eleven by milking cows to buy his own farm (a goal he reached). On November 29, 1958, he began sixty-five years of treasured marriage and love with Norma Elaine Martinez. As Raymond aged, he became the owner of JEMS Masonry and eventually Aztec Masonry. He later was the head custodian of Beth Eden Church. He worked for over a decade in Auraria Painting and was a security guard for a short time. He will be remembered for the prowess he displayed in quality trades work.

In his retirement, he spent time playing Skip-Bo with the kitten, watching television, golfing, and visiting his family. Raymond was nicknamed “Bo Jackson” by his family after he engaged in three sports at once - wall ball, volleyball, and softball. He was a jungle gym and a constant presence to his younger grandchildren; a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather; and a supportive, enduring husband who cared for his wife. He was a dedicated Christian and loved Jesus. His family and friends will remember Ray’s warmth. In Heaven, Ray will be met by his parents; his sister Jessie Martinez; his brother Gene Martinez; his eldest daughter, Carrie L. Gonzales; and his son-in-law, Michael John McGinness.

He is survived by his wife Norma; his children, Teressa L. Gonzales (Danny), Dale R. Martinez (Linda), Raydel E. McGinness, and Joe L. Martinez; his grandchildren, Brother R. Gonzales, Preacher Doucette (April), Victor Gonzales, Jessica Gonzales (Kim), Niki Martinez, Jacki Martinez, Madison Martinez (Seth), Michael McGinness II (Annabella); his great-grandchildren, Daniel Cano, Lilah Doucette, Liaf Doucette, Joey Bohe, and Jaycee Bohe; and his chihuahua, Mayo.

The viewing will be held April 19, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Crown Hill Cemetery. The funeral begins April 20, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Beth Eden Baptist Church. Graveside services commence at 3:00 pm, where Raymond will be interred at Crown Hill Cemetery. Dinner will be served at 4:00 pm at Beth Eden Baptist. Crown Hill Cemetery, 7777 W 29th Ave, Wheatridge, CO 80033 Beth Eden Baptist, 2600 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheatridge, CO 80033

Memorial donations may be made to the NRA Foundation, at

https://www.nrafoundation.org/donate/ , or Wesleyan Community Church, Bird City, KS at (785)734-2727.