Abel Martinez

Abel Vargas Martinez



Abel Vargas Martinez, age 88, a lifelong resident of Chimayo, New Mexico, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 24, 2024. Abel or "Red" as he was called by his family and friends, was born with an enthusiasm for life and had a loving warmth that made everyone feel at home in his presence. Born to Don Benito and Isidora Martinez, he grew up on a ranch in Chimayo as the youngest of five children.

Abel never shied away from hard work. After high school he left home to work in the uranium mines in Grants, NM. He later worked as a project foreman for the Southern Union Gas Company in Santa Fe. He was a skilled welder and heavy equipment operator for KNC Construction Company. He worked countless job sites in Espanola, Santa Fe, Los Alamos, and Albuquerque, all while maintaining a bountiful farm and apple orchards; never remaining idle.

Abel was an honest and loyal friend to many. He had an easy smile and a generous heart. He always thought the best of people and was a true gentleman. He loved God, took great care of his family, and taught them to respect, love, and take care of each other. He was the best example of an ever-present father. He enjoyed the outdoors, his cattle, his farm animals, and meticulously tended to his property. He loved Western movies, sweets, and more than anything else, his family.

Abel leaves behind his loving wife of sixty-four years, Susie Martinez, three daughters and sons-in-law: Angela Martinez and husband Anthony, Annabelle Baca and husband Jim, Juanita Resta and husband Tom; grandchildren: Micaela, Madison, Noah, and Elena.

Abel's services will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024 at St Joseph's on the Rio Grande Catholic Church, 5901 St. Joseph's Dr. NW in Albuquerque, NM. Rosary will be recited at 8:15 am and funeral Mass will follow at 9:00 am.

A committal service will be held Tuesday March 12, 2024, at 2:00 pm, at the Holy Family Church, Nuestra Señora de Dolores Cemetery in Chimayo, NM.