Catarino B. Martinez

Cotty was born on September 16, 1943, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Marcos and Rita Martinez. He grew up alongside his siblings: Marco Martinez Jr., John Martinez, Vivian Rojas, Margaret Mendoza, Teresa Juarez, Guadalupe Delgado, and Anita Mata.

Cotty proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967. During his service aboard the USS Hornet (CVS-12), he earned the Vietnam Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal in recognition of his honorable military service. Following his time in the Navy, he dedicated many years of service to the State of Colorado before retiring.

Retirement never slowed him down. Nearly every morning began with a hot cup of black coffee before heading outside to care for the lawn on the family farm—a labor of love that reflected his pride and work ethic. He also enjoyed spending time fishing, finding peace and relaxation on the water whenever he had the chance.

Above all else, Cotty treasured his family. He shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Carolina, building a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together, they created a legacy centered on faith, family, and unconditional love.

His greatest joy was being “Papo” to his grandchildren. Whether he was taking the girls to gymnastics and dance during the summer, picking up the boys from school, or sitting through baseball games in the summer heat to cheer on his beloved “Peanut,” Cotty was always there. His grandchildren always knew exactly where to find Papo—either in the stands cheering them on or patiently waiting in his Dodge truck or big van after a long day of school, practices, and games. His quiet presence, dependable love, and constant support will forever remain one of the greatest gifts he gave his family.

Cotty is lovingly survived by his son, Christopher Martinez; daughter, Cynthia (Justin) Casares; grandchildren Marissa (Jonathan) Ellett, Mikaela Martinez, Jerich Casares, Ramiro (Roxy) Martinez, Diego Martinez, and Brooke (Joshua Rawa) Garcia. John and Roxanne Garcia, and daughter-in-law Renee Martinez; and great-grandchildren Brayson, Oliver, and Parker.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolina Martinez; his son, Catarino Blas “Scott” Martinez; his parents, Marcos and Rita Martinez; and sister Annie Mata.

Cotty will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering work ethic, his love of fishing, and the countless hours he devoted to supporting the people he loved. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Service Information

A Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Platteville, Colorado. Burial will immediately follow at Mizpah Cemetery