Joe attended Yuma High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy and after serving three years he returned to Yuma only to enlist in the United States Army National Guard, where he became a proud member of the Co. L. 158th Infantry Regiment famously known as “The Bushmasters”. After serving over 20 years in the military, he retired.
While in the National Guard he was employed with the Civil Service at the Yuma Proving Ground in the ammunition recovery section “Demo” Department and as like his military service, he also retired from there.
During his long and fruitful retirement, he spent so much of his time volunteering at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #398. Joe became a staple and wore many different hats, from Chaplain to President. But his greatest accomplishment there was becoming Arizona State President and State Trustee. Joe also, took part in creating and establishing Aerie #4419 in Parker, Arizona.
Later in life you could find Joe having breakfast at local restaurants while reading his paper, followed by a scenic drive through the desert in hopes of seeing wildlife.
Joe was a man of few words who was truly grateful and humble with all his endeavors throughout his lifetime.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents Amaranto Martinez and Maria “Mary” Perez, brother Henry “Nuchi” Ghiotto, and Annabelle Hernandez, “the love of his life”, in his words.
Joe leaves behind his siblings, brother Robert Ghiotto, sisters Barbara Sciarra and Lucille (Alex) Torres; children Mary Frances Martinez, Joey (Phyllis) Martinez, and Ricky (Julie) Martinez; stepchildren Gina, Victoria, Dickie, Patrick and Johnny; grandchildren Richard “RJ”, Miriah, Krystal, Joseph, David, Jane, Maggie, Lexi, Juanita, Stevie, Sam, Toni, Kristina, Rikki, Tyler, Kirsten, Nicole, Anthony, Kisty, Christy, Misty, Frances, Frankie, Bianca, and Jordan, and many nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.
Pallbearers are Joey Martinez, Ricky Martinez, Miriah Martinez, Richard “RJ” Martinez, Johnny Ghiotto, Robert Ghiotto, Stevie Ornelas and Stevie Gomez.
Honorary Pallbearers are Elsa Romero, Bernice Limon, Becky Ghiotto, Ernie Hurtado, Matt Neill, Alan Ornelas and Alek Ornelas.
