Obituary of Joe Delfinio Martinez Jr.

Joe Delfinio Martinez Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many, passed away on January 19th, 2024 at his home in Albuquerque, NM surrounded by his two daughters. He was born on April 21st, 1931 in Des Moines, NM to his loving parents Delfinio and Arcelia Martinez.

Joe's life was marked by love and dedication to his family. He married the love of his life Audrey Martinez and they shared 65 beautiful years together. Their marriage was a testament to their enduring commitment and unwavering support and love for each other through thick and thin.

As a devoted father to Joel Ray Martinez, Theresa (Kenneth) Santistevan, Victor Martinez, and Erika (Joe) Cano; Joe instilled values of hard work and compassion in his children that continue to resonate within their own families today. His grandchildren Joseph Martinez, Derrick Martinez, Matthew Martinez, Stephanie Martinez, Nicole Cano, Victoria Martinez, and Audrey Santistevan-Sanchez, will always cherish the memories made with their adoring Grandpa. His legacy lives on through his great-grandchildren Serenity, Mila, Zachariah, Lillianna, Keanu, and Onyx who brought immeasurable joy into his later years.

Joe cherished time spent with siblings Bella Aragon, Helen Trujillo, Lucy Duran, Ernest Martinez, Marge Lucero, Pat Martinez, Pete Martinez, Lorenzo Martinez and Rosalee Medina who made his life richer with laughter and camaraderie.

Growing up working on a large ranch in Northern New Mexico, where both sheep and cattle were raised, shaped Joe into the hardworking man he became. He herded both sheep and cattle with passion and dedication that would carry him throughout his entire life.

In August of 1951 Joe joined the United States Navy where he served as an active member for eight years. His commitment to serving his country reflected his strong sense of duty and honor.

After leaving the Navy service behind him Joe then embarked upon a successful career at Wylie Bros. Corps where he worked for 35 years. His tireless work ethic propelled him from heavy equipment operator all the way up to superintendent of the Hot Plant. During that time both sons Joel Ray and Victor worked at Wylie’s where he taught them the trade of operating heavy equipment. 

After Joe retired he enjoyed many years of camping, fishing, and hunting with friends and family. Joe's passion extended beyond work and the outdoors as he found solace working on various projects in his backyard,happily building frames for his daughter Theresa’s paintings. A true craftsman at heart, his attention to detailed precision were evident in everything he touched. During his time indoors Joe enjoyed looking online for new recipes that his daughter Erika could make for him and checking in on family and friends on Facebook. 

The impact Joe left is immeasurable- from teaching valuable lessons, instilling core values, nurturing relationships, and creating memories that will be treasured forevermore.

The loss of Joe leaves a lasting void, but we take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. We celebrate a lifewell-lived and a legacy of love, respect, and integrity that will endure for generations to come. May we find peace in the memories we hold dearest. We mourn this profound loss while celebrating a journey that left an imprint on our hearts forever more. 

May you rest peacefully now dear Joe your legacy lives on within us all guiding, inspiring, and comforting us until we meet again. You will be missed dearly but never forgotten. 

ROSARY AND FUNERAL MASS

Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, time 8:00am (Rosary)

Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, time 9:00am (Mass)

Location:  Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church 

9502 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

Grave side internment will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery 

1900 Edith Blvd NE

Albuquerque, NM. 87102

**Reception to follow at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary church in the parish hall.