Jose L Martinez

October 8, 1947 – December 19, 2025

Jose Luis Martinez, known to nearly everyone as Joe, was born on October 8, 1947, in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. He lived a life defined by service, creativity, faith, and devotion to family.

Joe spent his early years in Texas traveling alongside generations of his family as migrant farm workers, following the harvests and learning early the values of hard work, perseverance, and loyalty. His family eventually settled in Illinois after his father found work in construction, allowing them to put down roots and build a new chapter of their lives.

In Wheeling, Illinois, Joe met Patricia Ruth Sullivan, who lived just across the street. Their love story began close to home and quickly grew into a lifelong partnership. Shortly after their marriage, Joe left for basic training and then served a tour of duty in Vietnam. He returned home in 1971 to his young family, meeting his first daughter, Tammy, when she was just six months old.

Joe devoted 26 years of his life to military service, serving honorably in the United States Air Force and the Illinois Air National Guard. After time spent living in Denver, Joe and Pat ultimately returned to Illinois before later relocating to Colorado, where they made their home for 26 years.

A true “guy’s guy,” Joe was always ready to help a friend or family member, whether it meant building something, fixing something, or simply showing up when needed. He was creative, funny, and—by his own admission and with affection from those who loved him—a little bit ornery at times.

Joe was an artist in every sense of the word. In his younger years, he played in a band that enjoyed local success before his deployment to Vietnam. Music remained a lifelong passion, and he loved playing guitar and singing with his family. He painted throughout his life and became a prolific artist; his work still adorns nearly every wall of the home he shared with Pat. Joe delighted in giving his paintings as meaningful gifts, each one a reflection of his talent and his generous spirit.

Above all else, Joe was a man of God. He loved music, art, the mountains, and his family, holding each close to his heart throughout his life.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Patricia Martinez; his daughters, Tammy Riddle (James); Michelle Martinez Bassett (Joshua Bassett); his grandchildren, Talia Ann Verderaime and Benicio Luis Martinez Bassett; and his brother, Michael Martinez.

Joe’s legacy lives on in the art he created, the music he shared, the lives he touched through service and kindness, and the deep love he gave to his family. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Services pending.