Jose “JoJo” Elesio Martinez, native of Pagosa Springs — The Man. The Friend. The Christian. The Legend. JoJo was born on May 7, 1960. The man we know as “Super Dad” died on May 1.The strongest man with the most irrational fear has left us behind with only our memories of him to heal our loss. As a loving husband, father of three and grandfather of one, he gave us the tools and skills that we need to survive and to keep the quality of life alive with us.
Our Dad was a jack-of-all-trades. The “Tinker,” as most of us referred to him. From construction to welding, to rigging things up, to shooting, to hunting, to horsemanship. He always had projects, he was never bored. He had a love for horses that was incurable. As was his wine-making, gift of creating, and cooking and eating skills. Peanut butter would be his next love, besides Mom. And he wouldn’t go anywhere without an extra pair of socks.
Describing our Dad shouldn’t be so hard, normally it’s so easy; but under the circumstances I have asked friends and family the word(s) they would use to describe him:
Priceless, irreplaceable, humble, friend, joy, smiley, jokester, old-fashioned, true to his roots, real, honest, straight forward, badass, super dad, Pops, awesome, my brother, quality, top notch, buddy, perfectionist, wingman, hardworking, big hearted, lovable, selfless, optimistic, loyal, rock-solid, role model, mentor, Bodie, country boy, strength, wonderful, courageous, philosopher, proud.
As for me, one word can sum it all up, my dad was my hero!
He was a man that his glass was never half full; it was always overflowing.
It’s also comforting to know that my dad left this world the same way he approached every day: willing to help a friend.
JoJo’s funeral will be held at Hilltop Cemetery, Saturday, May 10, at 11 a.m. Condolences would be appreciated at the funeral. Casual dress is encouraged. Due to the circumstances, there will be no reception held, to allow our family to grieve, but you will always be welcome in our home.
Thank you for being my Dad’s friend.
Thank you to Kelly Robertson, Jason Webb, Thad McKain, Carl Macht, and all of the EMS, firefighters, first responders and everyone else that tried to save JoJo. And thank you to everyone for their prayers, flowers, food, cards and blessings; and please know our prayers and thoughts are with all of you that grieve also.
JoJo you will be greatly missed!
The Martinez Family
Shonda, Michael, Meagan, Eric, Mitch, Brody, Sophie Chavez, Joe Bob and Donna Leake, Joe E. Martinez Jr., Mary Ellen Martinez, and more
If you are led in lieu of flowers and food, we have opened a memorial fund at Citizens Bank of Pagosa Springs. We will be using these funds for his grandchild and future grandchildren to help with college or any other necessities. You all know he appreciates the love and care you have provided for his family.
