Minnie Martinez

Minnie Martinez, our beloved mother, grandmother, and aunt died November 26, 2020 with her loving daughter Rose at her side. She was born September 23, 1922 in Ventans, New Mexico to parents Gomecindo and Simonita Baca. While growing up on a ranch in Trujillo, New Mexico she met the love of her life, Manuel Martinez. They married in August 1939 and were married for 66 years before his death. They had eight children, two have died; Manuel Junior and Sarah Martinez. Minnie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother and always showered her family with love, strong family values and faith in God. Minnie was a great cook and always made you feel at home with home-cooked meals. She loved to garden and was known for her green thumb. She could make anything grow. She loved to play bingo and enjoyed trips to Cripple Creek and Las Vegas. She also played cards regularly with family and friends. After suffering a massive stroke in 2002 she was confined to a wheelchair and was unable to speak but that didn’t stop her from showing us love with lots of hugs, smiles, and laughter. She had a great sense of humor and never complained. Minnie grew up in a large family with four brothers; Desiderio, Benito, Gomecindo Junior, and Casimiro Baca and four sisters; Ferminia Archibeque, Rita Lopez, Josefita Baca, and Celia Gentry, who have preceded her in death. Minnie is survived by her children who loved her dearly; Flora (Jesus) Villalpando, Jenny (Jim) Toland, Leroy (Delores) Martinez, Gloria, Albert, and Rose Martinez; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews especially Joann Jaques whose frequent visits brought joy and smiles to our mother. The family would like to thank our sister Rose who lovingly cared for our mother all these years and provided excellent care. To the various caregivers and professionals and to all of our family and friends we thank you for the prayers and support. Minnie was a member of Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church and received weekly Holy Communion from Jim Vigil who we are forever grateful.