Abel Joseph Martinez

Abel J. Martinez was born April 24, 1945 in Durango, Colorado. He was raised by two loving parents, Ignacio Martinez Sr. and Querina Martinez. He passed away April 18, 2024. Abel worked for Morehart Chevrolet for 10 years. He then retired from Mercy Hospital after 33 years. Abel loved to fish, computers, electronics and good food. He loved to tell me about his fishing stories and how he brought home fresh fish for dinner. He was extremely intelligent, and an avid reader and learner. He kept up with the weather each day. Making sure his brother Orlando was called every day to give the latest Forecast. Nothing happened in the neighborhood without Abel knowing. He could give you the latest on who is moving in and who is moving out. His strong will, independence, and success was something anyone who knew Abel admired. He was very proud of his accomplishments and worked very hard at his job. He was well respected and loved by his fellow co-workers, family and friends. Abel loved to laugh and had a quirky and funny sense of humor. He was always positive, kept himself busy after retirement and looked on the positive side of life. I was fortunate to live with Abel the last seven months to take care of him and help him.

He was a grateful, kind and a very strong-willed person. The faith and love of God was who he was. While he was in the hospital, Viola Dominguez Blessed Abel with Holy Water brought back from Fatima, and gave him a medal that was very important to her. Andrew Martinez spent the last month with Abel and took care of him. He made sure Abel was blessed with Last Rights and passed comfortably. Abel is survived by his brother, Orlando (Barbara) Martinez. He is preceded in death by his siblings: Elaisa Schilthuis, Margaret Martinez, Tonita Gomez, Roberta Griffin, Ignacio Martinez Jr. Joseph Martinez, and an infant Abel Martinez. He has numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass will be held June 1st. 2024 11:00 A.M. at Sacred Heart Church in Durango, Colorado. Officiating will be Rev. Fr. Heriberto Torres C.R. Inurnment will follow at Greenmount Cemetery Durango, Colorado.