Manuel A. Martinez

Manuel A. Martinez, a beloved rancher and devoted family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Medanales, New Mexico, on November 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 4, 1933, in Medanales, Manuel led a life characterized by hard work and deep commitment to his family and community.

As a rancher for most of his life, Manuel was known for his strength and dedication. He took immense pride in his ranches located in Colorado and Medanales New Mexico, where he raised racehorses and cultivated his beautiful land. He was a strong, tall, and handsome man whose presence could light up any room. His personality was as grand as his stature; he was known for his compassion, patience, and humor, always choosing kindness over negativity. Manuel instilled these values in his family, showing them not only how to work the land but also how to treat others with respect and love.

Manuel had a great love for family and was especially engaged with his grandchildren, encouraging them to participate in ranch activities while imparting valuable life skills. His family cherished every moment spent with him; they recall fondly his playful spirit and his wonderful sense of humor. He had particular fondness for food, especially hot wings, eggs, papas, and enchiladas, delights that he lovingly savored in the company of family and friends.

A strong sense of community flowed through Manuel's life; he was a member of San Jose Parish in Hernandez, NM, where his faith played a pivotal role. Manuel found joy in the simple pleasures of life, relishing the outdoors with activities like fishing, picking pinon, and camping with his family. He enjoyed playing cards and would start each day with a game of Solitaire alongside his breakfast and coffee. As he grew older, he embraced arts and crafts at the local senior center, always enhancing the experiences of those around him. He also delighted in visiting the Ohkay Casino, where he would gather with friends and immerse himself in the games.

Manuel's contributions to his family and community were deep and lasting. His proudest accomplishments included the family he nurtured and the ranch he operated, which served as a testament to his hard work and dedication. Notably, he was honored to be the Fiesta King at the Senior Center for four consecutive years, a recognition that brought him much joy.

He is survived by his children, Ida Martinez, Daniel Martinez, and Rudy Martinez; his grandchildren, Michelle Abeyta (Rafael), Leon Martinez (Carol), Larry Martinez (Desiree), Autumn Martinez (Tomas), and Kylie Martinez (Eli); and great-grandchildren, Jasmine Sauceda (Brandon), Alonzo Sauceda, Eliseo Sauceda, Donnie Martinez, Xander Apodaca, Ava Rose Apodaca, Little Larry Martinez, Aisha Martinez, Faith Martinez, Leon Martinez Jr., Patrick Martinez, and Patrick Gallegos. His legacy continues through his great-great-grandchildren, Brayden Dominovich, Ryder Dominovich, Jayce Dominovich, and Hayze Dominovich. Manuel is survived by many other nieces, nephews, godchildren, family members and cherished friends.

Manuel will be dearly missed by his living family members and friends and will be remembered for the love, laughter, and light he brought into their lives. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Erminia Martinez; his son, Phillip Martinez; his parents, Jose and Sinforosa Martinez; his sister, Lila Perkins; his grandson, Ryan Gallegos; and his niece, Bernice Abeyta. Manuel A. Martinez leaves behind a rich legacy of love and hard work, cherished memories, and a profound impact on all who had the honor of knowing him.

Services for Manuel will be posted as soon as they become available.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Rafael Sauceda, Tomas Apodaca, Leon Martinez, Alonzo Sauceda, Eliseo Sauceda, and Donnie Martinez. 

Honorary Pallbearers will be Michelle Abeyta, Autumn Martinez, and Kylie Martinez.