Martin Ben Gonzales

On Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, Martin Ben Gonzales passed away after an extended battle with cancer. Martin was born June 18, 1949, in Alamogordo to Ben and Mabel St. John Gonzales.
Martin graduated from Alamogordo High School in 1967. He subsequently joined the Navy during the Vietnam campaign, serving on an aircraft carrier.
Martin was preceded in death by his parents and his cousin Vicente Coyazo.
Survivors include his sister Gloria Petty Reinholt and her husband, Douglas Reinholt, residing in Schertz, Texas; his brother Alex St. John, residing in Albuquerque; nephews David Petty, of Alamogordo, Gabriel Petty and his wife, Andrea Petty, of Tularosa, and Michael St. John, of Albuquerque; and cousins Grave Vega and her spouse, Victor Vega, of Alamogordo, and Belinda St. John, in Albuquerque. Martin is also survived by numerous aunts and other cousins.
The family wishes to thank Martin's many friends, not only in Alamogordo but also in Albuquerque (Eddie Contreras) and Las Cruces (John Najera). Heartfelt appreciation goes to the doctors, nurses and staff at Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center and both Casa Arena Blanca and Betty Dare nursing facilities. A special gratitude goes to Mrs. Becky Avila in human resources and his care provider, David Maynez.
Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, also at the church with Father Juan Montoya, O.F.M., as celebrant.
The family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Hamilton-O'Dell Funeral Home to direct the arrangements. Cremation will take place at PCS.
To sign the online register book, please visit www.hamiltonodell.com.