John Ray Martinez

John Ray Martinez, 72, of Pueblo, passed away on December 23, 2020. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Christopher Martinez; parents, Benjamin and Alicia Martinez; brother Ben Martinez Jr.; in-laws, Gregorio and Helen Huerta; brothers-in law, Ed Huerta, Frank Huerta, Jack Maloney, Lou Lazo, Jerry Vaughn, Joe Gallagher Sr., and Edmund Vallejo; numerous other family members. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Theresa; children, Valerie Martinez, Gina Martinez, David (Raine) Martinez, Amanda (Ric) Wildenberg; grandchildren, Dominic, Jason, Adrianna, Alita, Bria, Braden, JJ and Lola; Siblings, Frank (Martha) Martinez, Eppie (Ruth) Martinez, Alice (Bill) Bansberg, Gerard (Sharon) Martinez, Ramona (Anthony) Vigil; in-laws, Inez Gallagher, Felicitas Lazo, Gregoria Vallejo, Rose (Jim) Tafoya, Catherine Maloney, Pat Tomko, Martha (Frank) Martinez and Joe (Brenda) Huerta; godchildren, numerous nieces and nephews; extended family and friends. John was a Pueblo native, graduating as a proud Central Wildcat, with the class of 1966. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served during the Vietnam War, on the USS Forrestal. After completing his service, he worked as an auto body technician, for various local dealerships. In 1986, he changed careers to begin working for the Housing Authority of Pueblo, as a lead painter. During this time, he was honored to represent his peers, as their union President. He was a very faithful man, serving as a Eucharistic minister, at St. Joseph Parish. He was known and loved by many, who affectionately called him, “Papa John”. John had a huge heart, and once he met you, you weren’t just a friend, you were family. He was an avid Denver Broncos fan, enjoyed bowling with his wife and son, yearly camping trips to his beloved Colorado mountains, and especially cooking delicious food for family and catering ventures. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. He will be forever loved and deeply missed by all those who carry on his memory. Private Mass of Resurrection with Live stream through Facebook at Romero Family Funeral Home, Pueblo and YouTube at Romero Family Funeral Home Pueblo, 10:00 am, Tuesday. St. Joseph Church.