CHAMA, CO —Chama resident Gilbert Wilbur Martinez,78, passed away May 6, 2019. Gilbert made his debut into the world on April 4, 1941 in San Luis, the beloved son of Felipe Martinez and Fedelina Espinoza Martinez. Gilbert was a Veteran of the United States Marines and served during the Cuban Crisis. He was a member of the American Legion Council Post #142 and a life member of the V.F.W. Post #6101. On his free time Gilbert enjoyed gardening, going hunting, reading and doing word puzzles. His greatest joy in life came from the time he was able to spend with his children, grandchildren, family and friends. He was a remarkable and loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend who will be missed dearly.
Survivors include his daughters Sheilani Romero of Denver; Pamela (Ernest) Vigil of San Luis; Kimberly (Brian) Carabelos of Brighton; Krista Martinez of Sylmar, Calif.; Benita (Raymond) Gurule of San Luis; son Gilbert (Merlitaa) Martinez Jr. of Fountain; 13 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, sisters Jane Rufran (Rudy Valdez) of Colorado Springs; Eva (Leonard) Lopez of Pueblo; Ella Cobos of Colorado Springs; Julie (Arnold) Lopez of Denver; Evelyn (Frank) Mondragon of Pueblo; brother Jimmie (Pam) Romero of Taos, N.M. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents Felipe and Fedelina Martinez, sisters Lisaida Gonzales, Agatha Ruybal, Julia Romero, brothers Fernando Martinez, Roy Martinez and one grandson Emilio Ortega.
A Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Thursday, May 9, at 7 p.m. at the Sangre De Cristo Catholic Church in San Luis. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, May 10, at 11 a.m. at the Centennial High School Gymnasium. Interment will follow at the San Francisco Cemetery with full military honors. To leave online condolences please visit www.romerofuneralhomes.com. The care of arrangements have been entrusted to Romero Funeral Home of San Luis.