- Date Of Death: December 14, 2016
- State: New Mexico
David Martinez, 68, passed away peacefully at home during the early hours of December 14, 2016. David was known for his bright smile, colorful sense of humor, and quick wit. He had an innate ability to reach out to anyone he saw in need and was always eager to share the wisdom of his life lessons. He was opinionated, honest, generous, and a man of his word. David was proud to have served our country as a Vietnam Veteran.
David’s parents both passed away when he was young and he and his sister Christina were raised by their grandmother in Capitan. He graduated from Capitan High and while attending business college, was drafted into the US Army where he specialized in aircraft armament. After five years of serving, he received an honorable discharge and several letters of recommendation for being a good soldier. He was a certified welder and pipe fitter by trade. He was very active in his children’s education and many organizations such as the Zapata Farm Club, North Valley Neighborhood Association, Arts in the School, Breakfast Exchange Club, and the City Arts Board. He was elected to represent Congressional District 1 in Los Angeles for the 2008 presidential election. David received the Spirit of the North Valley Outstanding Citizen award in 2000 and was honored by the Hispanic Cultural Preservation League for modeling Don Juan de Onate for the La Jornada monument.
David is preceded in death by his parents, Adelaida and Juan; sister, Christina; first wife, Patty; and his beloved son, Juan. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sofia; his daughters, Nicole (Cruz), Elysia (Marty), Rebecca (Chavin) and Christie; also by his step-children, Deborah (Steve), Shawn and Maria; his grandchildren, Richard, Raymond, Gabriel, Joshlyn, Jacob, Alyssa, Jaelyn, Jazmyn, Lillyana, Alexie, Salvador, Alejandro and baby David; and six great-grandchildren.
David always remained a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend and will be deeply missed.
Thursday, December 22nd, 2016, 10:00am, FRENCH – University
Sunset Memorial Park
