Lawrence "Marty" Martinez

Lawrence "Marty" Martinez, age 83, passed away at Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque, NM, Tuesday, September 9, 2014. He was born in Ventura, CA, August 29, 1931, where he resided until he joined the US Army and then continued his military career in the US Air Force. He was a combat veteran of the Korean War and a 23-year military retiree. He has lived in New Mexico since his retirement from the US Air Force in 1972. Since living in New Mexico, Marty had become an award-winning artist. He was involved in various capacities to help further the visual arts as a member of the Feria Artesana Foundation and The NM Veterans Artist Group. His passion for art was well known. Marty had developed a unique method to paint mini-scenes, still lifes and graphics specifically on treated turkey feathers. His work was exhibited in numerous art shows in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado and California. He was awarded the contract for the first exhibits for the International Hall of Fame in Alamogordo, NM. He also enjoyed his time as a drummer for the Ballut Abyad Band for many years where he also provided drum lessons for aspiring musicians. Marty is survived by his wife of 50 years, Priscilla T. Martinez. They met when they were both employed at the U.S Embassy in Spain, and were married in 1964 in Madrid. He is also survived by his brother, Edward Romero, of Westminster, CA; and numerous family members and friends residing locally and throughout the United States. A Rosary will be recited, and the eulogy given on Tuesday, September 16, 2014, 7:00 p.m., at FRENCH - Wyoming by former United States Ambassador to Spain, Edward L. Romero. Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, September 17, 2014, 9:00 a.m., at The Shrine of St. Bernadette Church, 11509 Indian School Rd., Albuquerque, by Monsignor Gomez. Graveside Services will take place Wednesday, September 17, 2014, 12:45 p.m., at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM. FRENCH - Wyoming 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400