Martin Leroy Marrujo, 73, of Pueblo, CO, passed away Wednesday, October 2nd, at his residence.

Martin was born in Las Vegas, NM on September 14, 1946, a son of the late Martha (Quintana) and Benjamin Frank Marrujo.

He was the husband of JoAnn Clarita (Vigil) Marrujo, they were married on Jan. 27, 1968 in Rocky Ford, CO.

Martin served as a Naval Corpsman in the 3rd Marine Division Kilo Company during the Vietnam War.

Martin was an adventurous and brave soul, striving for excellence in everything he did and never letting a hardship stand between himself and success! Martin was never able to rest without accomplishing something every day, and his accomplishments in life number too greatly to be listed now. But what can easily be said of this great man is that he was a man of defiance and diligence, bravery and perseverance. He defied the opposition and worked to overcome all obstacles with a tireless and tenacious fervor. He was a self-taught jack of all trades and his boundless curiosity and need for creating, healing, and protecting made him a champion of hard work and a hero to those in need.

From the depths of poverty to the depths of the deepest and bloodiest of jungles he clawed his way up little by little, fighting every step of the way to see that golden dawn that was a better tomorrow. He was one of only seven survivors to return alive from his battle team on Hill 861. A Naval corpsman with the marines he devoted his life to healing and helping save lives even at the risk of his own. Never giving up, he fought on in many other battles and returned home to marry his childhood sweetheart, JoAnn Marrujo; who remained by his side for 51 more years. Remaining in the Navy Reserves he retired after 24 years of diligent and honorable service to this nation. 24 years was given selflessly as a healer and care giver, never asking for anything in return he simply did what he had to in order to build a better future for himself and the love of his life. Not satisfied with that contribution to mankind he devoted 30 more years to the Poudre Fire District in Fort Collins Colorado where he retired a Fire Marshal. Never able to rest, for time was too precious. He worked even on his off time with building boats, and remodeling cabins in the mountains, restoring street rods, sweating under the sun doing landscaping, woodworking, trying new foods even if he didn't like it, he would give anything a try at least once. He dabbled his hand in the classic arts attempting to learn to play the guitar and creative writing. He was a stone that would gather no moss.  He was a steadfast soldier, a fearless fire fighter, a stern defender, a man gifted with foresight to plan ahead for vacation and emergencies alike, eternally level headed under fire he was the family's rock. A devoted husband, a father, a grandfather, a teacher, a protector, a friend, a hero, a comedian and most importantly: an inspiration.

Martin L. Marrujo will be missed greatly and leaves big shoes to fill for the future generations. We Love and miss you always.

He is survived by his wife JoAnn of the home; Son Brandon Marrujo, of Pueblo West, CO; Son Chance Marrujo, of Seattle, WA; Sister Lorraine Parra, of Albuquerque, NM.

Martin was preceded in death by his parents; daughter: Jolene Marrujo; 2 brothers: Benjamin & Gerald Marrujo; sister: Irene Kaufroth

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, October 9th at St. Peters Catholic Church in Rocky Ford, CO with Fr. Paul Ekeh officiating. Inurnment will be in the Valley View Cemetery in Rocky Ford, CO.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford - Ustick Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com.