Martin C. Ortiz

Martin C. Ortiz, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on September 18, 1946, in Questa, New Mexico. He peacefully left this world on May 10, 2025, at home in Alcalde, surrounded by his loving family.

Raised by his grandmother, Augustina Ortiz, Martin was instilled with strength and pride from an early age. He dedicated himself to helping his family through various jobs, always ensuring they had a good life. He shared a close bond with his Tio Adolph and Tia Eloisa, who played a significant role in his upbringing, along with their children—Joyce, Bernadette, Kelly, Jack, and Fred—who were like siblings to him. Martin grew up in Questa, NM, where he later graduated from Questa High School in 1964.

On October 7, 1967, Martin married Eloisa Garcia Quintana. Together, they raised her three boys, Tony, Pat, and John, and welcomed a daughter, Annette, into their family. Their life was filled with love, laughter, and adventure, with weekends often spent dancing and making memories with family and friends. Fishing was a favorite pastime for Martin, and he cherished the moments spent teaching his granddaughter Daviana how to fish, creating a lasting bond as fishing partners.

An active participant in the Rio Arriba County Senior Olympics, Martin thrived on competition, winning numerous medals and forming friendships with fellow athletes who became like family. His guidance and wisdom were invaluable to his children, who admired him greatly and often turned to him for advice.

Martin is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Eloisa; his children, Tony (Frances), Pat, John (Missy), and Annette (Marshall); and honorary daughter, Ramona (Terry). He was a proud grandfather to 19 grandchildren: Mychelle (Curtis), Pablo, Alicia (Sean), Nikki (Michael), Andres (Natalia), Adrianna (Aaron), RosaMaria, Patricio, Leonard, Angelina (Raymond), Connie Sue, Genisis (his little munchkin), Laura, Tyrell (Maria), Ian (Heather), Zeak (Cassidy), Terrance, Daviana (Jeremy), and Juliana (John), as well as 15 great-grandchildren. His granddaughters Daviana, Juliana, and Genisis held a special place in his heart, with Genisis having a particularly unique way of getting grandpa to indulge her wishes, even at just three years old.

Martin will be missed dearly by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his joyful spirit, sense of humor, and ability to bring happiness into the lives of others. Cremation will take place, with burial services to be held at a later date alongside Eloisa when she joins him.