It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jose "Lorenzo" Martinez, age 82, on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Lorenzo passed away peacefully surrounded by three of his siblings, Lourdes Martinez, Rosalie Garcia, and Philomeno Martinez.  Lorenzo was born in Tome, New Mexico on August 10, 1942.  Lorenzo was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, father-in-law, uncle and friend.  Lorenzo was a resident of Albuquerque since the age of 8.  He proudly served in the United States Army and was a Vietnam Veteran.  Lorenzo retired from Georgia Pacific Lumber Company in 2005 where he was a forklift operator and truck driver.

Lorenzo is preceded in death by his father, Jose Martinez; mother Adela Martinez; son Steven Martinez; siblings Lorenza Martinez, Charlene Martinez, Nancy Martinez, and Carmel Martinez.

Lorenzo is survived by his wife of 57 years Dorothy Martinez; sons Lawrence Martinez (daughter-in-law, Mary Bodelson) and David Martinez; grandchildren, Lisa Martinez, Anne Martinez, Mark Martinez, Jacqueline "JJ" Martinez, and Marcus Ballejos; siblings Cecilio Martinez, Connie Martinez, Lourdes Martinez, Rosalie Garcia, Philo Martinez and Daniel Martinez; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Lorenzo fought in the front lines in the Vietnam War in artillery.  He was proud of his service and often wore one of several Vietnam Veteran baseball caps that he owned.   Lorenzo loved sports and was a baseball and softball player.  He also had a love for music and taught himself how to play the accordion.  He would always take his accordion to gatherings where he would play for family and friends.  He also liked getting outside and spent many years helping his friend, Ray Baca, with his large garden where they would grow green chile.  He had a soft spot for his dogs and over the years had many that he would take for walks in the bosque.  Most of all he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.  He was the "life" of the party and had a good sense of humor that put everyone at ease.  He will be truly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Visitations will be held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. with a Rosary to begin at 8:15 a.m.  Mass of Christian burial will follow at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Parish, 562 Atrisco Dr. SW 87105.

Burial will take place at 12:30 p.m. at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  Pallbearers will be Ray Baca, Daniel Martinez, Mark Martinez, Philo Martinez, Anthony Montoya and Gabriel Trujillo.  Honorary pallbearers will be Eloy Garcia and Daniel Valdez.

A reception honoring Lorenzo will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Police located at 4120 Cutler Ave. NE 87110.