Fred Martinez

August 4, 1930 - October 31, 2010

Fred Martinez, 80, of Thornton CO, formerly of Rocky Ford died on Sunday October 31, 2010 at his residence. Fred was born on August 4, 1930 in Maes, New Mexico to Marcelino Martinez and Magdalena (Leyba) Martinez, who preceded him in death. He was the youngest of eight children and the last of the siblings to pass. In 1947 at the age of 17, Fred moved to Rocky Ford with his family. In 1951, Fred met Emma Casados and fell in love. They were married on October 4, 1952 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rocky Ford. They raised four wonderful children. In 1973, Fred decided to pack up the family and move to the Denver area for more gainful employment. He loved music, gardening, his grandchildren and anything western. He played the guitar, steel guitar, violin and harmonica. Country or Mexican music could always be heard at family gatherings. He is survived by wife, Emma, and his four children, Paula (Frank) Beard, Janette (Robert) Vigil, Abe (Cristela) Martinez, and Geno (Susan) Martinez, Eight grand children, nine great-grand children and four great-great-grandchildren. His niece, Dorothy Martinez of Albuquerque, New Mexico, who was raised with him like a sister, also survives him. His parents and siblings, Abran, John, Perfenia, Belen, Eloisa, Evan and Angelina, preceded him in death. There will be a viewing and Rosary at St. Peter's Catholic Church on Thursday November 4, 2010 at 6:30 pm. The funeral will be Friday at 10:00 am with interment at the Rocky Ford Cemetery. Following the interment, the family invites everyone to a small celebration of Fred's life with food and drink at the Parrish Hall in St. Peter's Catholic Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford-Ustick Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com.