Jose "Joe Dan" Martinez

Jose "Joe Dan" Martinez, age 75, of Henderson, Nevada, passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2020. Joe Dan was born at home on November 30, 1944 in Pagosa Springs, Colorado to his parents Jesus M. and Maria A. Martinez. He was raised in Pagosa Springs, Colorado with his five siblings. He had an older brother Benerito, an older sister Cecilia, and three younger brothers Demetrio, Manuel, and Orlando. As a young boy, Joe Dan enjoyed playing basketball, and working on the family ranch. He graduated from Pagosa Springs High School in 1962. His favorite classes in high school were science and math. In addition to being his Senior Class President, he will be remembered as the President of the National Honor Society and the Basketball Team.

Joe Dan was an U.S. Army Veteran, who served honorably in Vietnam. Upon his honorable release from active duty, Joe Dan continued to serve his country in both the National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserves. He served with the 801st Maintenance Battalion 101st Airborne, the 704th Maintenance Battalion, 5th Light Equipment Maintenance Company, as well as serving as an instructor at School of Americas in Canal Zone Panama Military Academy. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He received several awards recognizing him for his heroism that include the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with (5) bronze service stars, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal (2nd award), and the expert rifle shooting badge.

On December 30, 1972 Joe Dan exchanged wedding vows with Mary "Patsy" Maestas at a private civil wedding in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The couple were blessed with three children: Lisa, Gina, and Carmela, eight grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Joe Dan was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. In both his personal and professional environments, Joe Dan upheld the highest of standards. His primary occupation was in public works, where his work ranged from police commissioner to utility plans examiner. While employed for the City of Pagosa Springs he helped to establish the use of their Geothermal Heating System. He later relocated to Nevada where he worked for the City of Henderson.

Joe Dan approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. He enjoyed the outdoors and being active both with his family, and in the community. His hobbies consisted of dancing, ranch work, Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Cattle Sorting, Team Penning, and many other equine activities. He also enjoyed watching all rodeo events, big and small.

As a true cowboy, Joe Dan was a lover of all animals. He was well known for his horse training abilities and went on to teach many of his skills to others. Although, he had many horses and other animals, one of his favorite pets was his Chiweenie Tootsie.

When Joe Dan retired in 2004, he was able to return to his horseman roots. He spent his time participating in equine activities with his family and friends. He also gave trail rides with Boulder City Parks and Recreation Department and helped train many horse and riders in the Las Vegas Valley.

Joe Dan was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers: Demetrio, Manuel and Orlando. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Patsy; daughters: Lisa (Billy) Fritze, Gina (Dub) Timberlake, and Carmela (Randy) Saenz; eight grandchildren: Erika Goodall, Tricia Gray, Dominique Montgomery, Marissa Montgomery, Caitlin Timberlake, Sarah Timberlake, Ryder Saenz, Hunter Saenz; brother, Benerito (Stella) Martinez; sister, Cecelia Campbell; sister-in-law, Bonnie Martinez; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

All who knew him would agree that Joe Dan was one of a kind. He had a strong work ethic and was known for his vast intelligence and wisdom in many areas. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more. Joe Dan Martinez did his best to ensure that he positively affected the lives of the many he encountered. For this reason he will be greatly missed by not only his family but his many friends.

Memorial services will be held Thursday, November 12, 2020 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmboulderhighway.com for the Martinez family.