Raymond was born in Del Norte, Colo., on Aug. 18, 1945, to Juan B. and Pablita Martinez. Raymond grew up in Pagosa Springs and graduated from Pagosa High School in 1964, where he excelled in athletics. Raymond served his country honorably in the Army during the Vietnam war. After his service, Raymond joined his family in Henderson, Nev., and married his wife of 56 years, Karen Chambers Martinez.
Raymond was an accomplished and dedicated welder. Raymond’s work can be seen across the Vegas Valley in the form of titanium crosses that he crafted to adorn the tops of several local churches and hospitals.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Raymond was a lifelong avid outdoorsman. A fisherman at heart, Raymond loved spending days with a fishing pole in his hand. He loved fishing and his family loved the fish frys that followed. Raymond also loved hunting, four-wheeling, and camping with his family.
When he was not outside, Raymond enjoyed spending time with family and beloved dogs; watching the Broncos, Rebels basketball and Notre Dame football games; eating homemade beans, tortillas and chili; watching National Geographic and listening to Country Chuck.
Raymond is survived by his wife, Karen; son Jonathan (Hope) Martinez; daughter Kathleen (Chris) Mueller; grandchildren Ashley, Bailey, Zachary, Christopher, Patrick and Jonathan. Additionally, Raymond is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, including Raymond’s lifelong friend and partner in crime, Gabriel Hendricks.
He was predeceased by his parents and siblings: Joe Martinez, Helen Archuleta, Mary Quintana, Rosalie Higley, Lawrence Martinez, Margaret Hendricks, Jerry Martinez, Donelia Mullis and Clara Martinez. To honor Raymond’s life, a funeral Mass was held in Henderson, Nev., on June 22. Raymond will be laid to rest alongside his family at Hilltop Cemetery in Pagosa Springs, Colo., on Aug. 31, 2024, at 10 a.m. Guests are welcome to attend the interment and join the family for lunch following the interment. Please RSVP to Leonard Martinez at (505) 506-7649 by Aug. 30, 2024, if you would like to attend the lunch.
