Severo Martinez

Severo Martinez, 90, was welcomed into the arms of our dear Lord Jesus on, Sunday July 16, 2006 surrounded by his loving family and friends. Severo was preceded in death by his wife Rosemary, and is survived by his daughters Leonor (Norie) Martinez, Kate Martinez and companion Jose Marquez, Rebecca Martinez, and son Severo Vincent Martinez and wife, Amy. He had five grandchildren that he adored, David St. James, Severo William, Megan, Ashley and Natalie Martinez. He is also survived by his brother Conrad Rivera and wife Eva, sister Cordy Conley, his companion and friend Dolores Sullivan, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Rosenda Gallegos, brothers Manuel and Pat Martinez, Antonio A Rivera II and Mario Rivera. He was born May 7, 1916 in Chama, New Mexico. Growing up in Chama, Taos, and El Rito he gained a great love and appreciation for the great outdoors and the beauty of Northern New Mexico. He loved to fish in the small streams of the North and hunt dear, elk, and grouse. Severo was a proud veteran of World War II where he served with the 58th Quartermaster Battalion in Europe and in the South Pacific. He was recalled to federal service as a member of the New Mexico National Guard during the Korean Conflict. As a forward observer he was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. After release from federal service Severo remained in the New Mexico National Guard until his retirement at the rank of Major. Severo was always very proud of the men he served within the National Guard and loved them dearly. Severo was employed with the Employment Security Commission (DOL) for 39 years. His faithful and dedicated service to that agency as Manager and District Supervisor assisted many New Mexico Veterans and citizens to obtain employment and helped start many careers. Severo is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, a life member and charter member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Patrick Hurley Chapter. A life member of the American Legion, and the Santa Fe Elks Club #460. Rosary was recited on July 18, 2006 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church on Osage Av. in Santa Fe. Funeral mass was held July 19, 2006 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Internmentl was held at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Open Hands in memory of Severo Martinez.