Ernest J. Martinez, or “Ernie” as most knew him, was born March 28, 1948 in Alamosa, Colo., and died on Feb. 4, 2025.
He was preceeded in death by his parents, Mike and Rebecca Martinez and his siblings, Eileen Gallegos and Tino.
Ernie is survived by his siblings Louise Bowman, Tom, Benita Vigil, Emma Lucero, Alex, Harold and Mike; his children Emilia (Joe) Pina, E.J. (Nuvia), Frank Gonzales and Selena Nicks; his grandchildren, Andre Martinez, Ren Martinez, Tyvon Pina, Junior Pina, Sally Pina, Alea Gonzales, Zaine Gonzales, Julian Nicks, Tythan Nicks and Avery Olsen; and great-grandchildren, Alani Pina and Eva Nicks.
He was married to Ramona Serna for 14 years.
Ernie attended public school in Alamosa and continued his education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Adams State University. Ernie started his career as a union laborer working on many projects, including the Eisenhower Tunnel. Ernie then worked for Joe Ulibarri Construction, later known later known as Tierra Contractors. One of Ernie’s most memorable projects was working at Denver International Airport as a Contract Administrator overseeing contractors during construction of the airport. After many years, Ernie started his own business and was known in the construction industry for his work on multiple successful projects.
Ernie enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was a proud Denver Broncos season ticket holder for more then thirty 30 years. Ernie will be greatly missed and forever loved by many.
A funeral will be held on Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siene Siena in Denver.
