Charles Lyman Saiz

Charles Lyman Saiz, 71, a resident of Aztec, New Mexico, was born in Farmington, New Mexico on May 29, 1954 to Casimiro and Eulalia Saiz, the fourth of their six children together. On October 27, 2025 a 6:05 a.m. Charles departed this life, and entered eternity with his unfailing faith.

Charles was raised in Bloomfield, New Mexico and, thanks to the Montoya family, he was able to live with them so he could graduate from Bloomfield High School. He was raised on a farm where he learned to love and appreciate the outdoors. He enjoyed the times he spent hunting, camping, fishing and any outdoor job that presented itself.

He was very athletic and built an impressive reputation as a pitcher in men's fast pitch softball - a reputation that followed him the rest of his life. He was often stopped in public by an old teammate, opponent, or fan to discuss his softball days. Charles also enjoyed bowling, golfing, poker, the casino and later in life he learned to rope. No matter what he was doing, he had a sparkle in his eye and smile that would light up your heart.

Charles dedicated over 40 years to the oil and gas industry, building lifelong friendships and a reputation for excellence. His career spanned roles from Lease Operator to Subject Matter Expert, taking him across New Mexico, Colorado, and southern Utah. Known for his integrity and high standards, Charles always went the extra mile-and expected the same from others. Even shortly before his passing, he returned to the field, monitoring wells with passion and purpose. The moment he stepped onto the wellsite, it was clear he was home. He poured his heart into boosting production and truly enjoyed every moment. Special thanks to Travis Holcomb for giving Charles the opportunity to spend his final year doing what he loved most.

Charles was never one to cut corners. He put his heart into all he did and he did it well. He had a passion for life and a magnetic personality; his smile and his presence brought a special warmth to those around him. He had a tender and generous heart and was always ready to give a helping hand wherever he saw a need, he genuinely cared for others. He could be a good-natured man with the ability to laugh at himself when he found himself the target of some good-trash talk and he had no fear about giving you a piece of his mind if he felt you were in the wrong or had crossed him.

In 2011, Charles faced a serious setback after a horse accident left him in a wheelchair. But in true Charles' fashion, he met the challenge head-on. After just one therapy session, he decided he could do it better himself-and he did. Through sheer determination and grit, he shaved three months off his recovery time by doing therapy at home.

Even in a wheelchair, Charles didn't slow down. He learned to run the washer and dryer, started cooking meals, and rolled himself out into the yard to keep it clean. Once he was back on his feet, he did what only Charles would do-he bought another horse and got right back in the saddle.

He was over 60 when he learned how to rope, and we used to joke, "You really can teach an old dog new tricks." But that was Charles-always moving, always learning new skills.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Casimiro and Eulalia Saiz, and his older brothers Leroy, Ted, and Abel.

He is survived by his wife, Marnie; children, Crysta (Micah), Steve (Lisa), Robert, Mandy, Anthony (Amber), Chris, Jacob (Leah), and Nathan; thirty-seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He held a special place in his heart for his granddaughters, Kaytie and Stella and his great-grandson, Kolten. He also leaves behind his sister Lena (Doug), brothers Gary and Kevin (Hadasa), sisters-in-law Cheryl and Marcia, together with numerous nephews and nieces.

We cannot forget his beloved Karlie Jo who is and will always be his constant companion in waiting.

Charles had a very special relationship with his nephew Jerry and wife Carrie Saiz, their son Daniel and wife Ashley Saiz and his niece Stephanie Martinez. They treated him, and he loved them, as if they were his own children. Over the two months leading up to his death, they were a constant source of strength to him and helped to ease his pain with their love and support.

His son Steve showed the greatest sacrificial love by moving to New Mexico to care for his father, making it possible for Charles to live his final days at home.

Charles was deeply devoted to his Catholic roots and attended St. Mary's Catholic Church in Farmington. He also found his faith growing as an active member of Timberline Church in Aztec. His spiritual journey was a testament of his desire to grow ever closer to God and he was always full of questions and desired to learn as much as he could from the experiences of others.

Charles will be deeply missed, but the impact he had on the lives and hearts of those who knew him will live on. Whether through stories shared around dinner tables, campfires, or in quiet moments we hope that his memory will continue to bring smiles, laughter, and deep gratitude to those who pause and reflect on his life and their relationships with him. May the Lord hold him close in everlasting peace.

Funeral services for Charles will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Farmington on Saturday November 15, 2025 at 2100 E. 20th St. in Farmington, New Mexico.

Rosary will begin at 10:30 a.m., the funeral at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life and reception in the Parish Hall.

Honorary Pallbearers are: Jerry Saiz, Daniel Saiz, Edward Saiz, Eric Saiz, Chris Clapper, Brian Saiz, Russell Smith, Caleb Saiz, Anthony Martinez, Chris Martinez, Jacob Martinez, and Nathan Martinez.