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Rita J. Martinez

1955 - 2020

Rita J. Martinez obituary, 1955-2020, Pueblo, CO

BORN

1955

DIED

2020

Rita Martinez Obituary

Rita J. Martinez, 65, a prominent Chicana activist and community leader crossed over and began her journey to a life everlasting, Dec. 10, 2020. Rita was born Oct. 28, 1955, in Pueblo, to Manuel Martinez and Lucy Cortes. She is reunited with her parents; brother, Ted Martinez; sister-in-law, Arlene Martinez; and nephews, Kenny, Derek, Baby Christian; her childrens' father, Jose Esteban Ortega; and special aunt, Isabel Cortez. She is survived by her loving children, Tomas (Latoya), Vicente and Neva (Andre) Martinez Ortega; by her siblings, Ken, Dan (Tina), Rick; and sister-in-law, Martha Martinez; grandchildren, Marcos Ortega Keshmiri, Francisco Ortega Galindo, Isa Beebe, Aaliyah Maestas; cherished nieces and nephews, adored godchildren, cousins, aunts, uncles, a multitude of friends and numerous community organizations. Rita was a loving mother to her three children, grandchildren, and was known to be a "second mother" to many others she mentored in the community. She was a fun-loving person who was known to be just as silly as she was serious. Rita shared her deep devotion to her spirituality, faith, and culture with her family and community. She held many positions on non-profit boards and oversaw many organizations including her positions as school nurse and Center Manager at Boys & Girls Club/ Girls Inc.. With more than five decades of fighting for social justice and cultural pride, Rita will be remembered as a strong and loving spirit and as a cornerstone in advancing the Chican@ Movement in Colorado. In lieu of flowers and food, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to Venmo (@Nevmo). Contributions will support Rita's cherished Chican@ Movement. Future church services and community celebrations will ensue at a later date. A community funeral procession travelling through town is planned for Friday, Dec. 18, 2020. Please follow El Movimiento Sigue on Facebook for procession route and future memorial services. Online condolences at www.angeluspueblo.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Pueblo Chieftain from Dec. 13 to Dec. 16, 2020.

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Maria Vega Clark

December 17, 2020

It's like a bit of sunshine will be missing in Pueblo for awhile. Rita had relationships on an individual basis with many gente. And no matter what personal views were set forth what was always front and center was the importance of generating & creating movement. I'll cherish those short, unique sweet moments of discussions, laughter and sometime sorrow that was shared. Amiga, hermana, I feel you will still be walking with many. Rita siempre Viva. Con carino, Maria

Katie Cadena-Priebe

December 16, 2020

Remembering you and your loved ones today and always. It was an honor to know and work with you, Rita. May the perpetual light shine on you and may you rest in peace. God bless your children. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Viva la raza! Love, Katie Cadena-Priebe

Sandra (keka) Jimenez

December 16, 2020

I want to thank Rita for a very special friendship we have had for years. She worked hard for the community and the rights for us all. I send my condolences to Nava, Tomas, Vincent's and her family. Will miss you greatly Rita.

Charles Jr. & Doris Puga

December 16, 2020

Rita Martinez was a true Chicana. She fought for justice and equality for all people of color. She was an amazing speaker, motivator and organizer. She worked tirelessly, people calling on her at all times of the day. She never turned down a person who needed help. She was a once in a life time leader and she spread her love to all! This awesome "Woman of Color" will be missed!!

Carrie Lopez

December 16, 2020

My time spent with Rita will forever hold a special place in my heart. To her children and all her family my most deepest condolences are with you. What a most special lady indeed.

Diana Salazar

December 13, 2020

Rita was a true servant to the community.
She will be greatly missed!

Maureen Carroll-Halpin

December 13, 2020

She was an amazing person. I met her through Boys and Girls club when my son John attended the club. She was very kind to him. Whenever we would see each other, she would ask about him. She was very dedicated to the community of Pueblo. I will miss her.

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