Henry Martinez

Henry Martinez, 88, of Las Cruces, NM went to be with the Lord on October 18, 2014. Henry was one of the last sons to farm the family farm when his older brothers left to war. Henry was born on May 5, 1926 to Cesario and Rafaelita Martinez of Hatch, NM. Henry became a musician at a very young age; he learned to play several instruments because of the availability of instruments that his brothers left behind. He married Juanita Pina of Hatch NM and had 5 Children. After being married a few years Henry moved his family to Deming NM and went to work for the State Highway Department and later on went to work for the Deming Public Schools. While in Deming, Henry became very well known as a great musician playing with the Pete Dominguez Orchestra, Los Compas Band and later on forming his own-Henry Martinez Orchestra. In 1971 Henry moved his family to Las Cruces and went to work for New Mexico State University where he retired. Henry was a proud member of Our Lady of Health Catholic Church. Henry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He welcomed all into his home with open arms and a giving heart. His love of music continued on up until his passing. Henry is preceded in death by his loving wife Juanita "Joni" Martinez, his parents Cesario and Rafaelita Martinez, his siblings Magdalena, Pablo, Julio, Isidoro, Cesario, Jesus, Carlos, Guillermo, Cecilia, Catalina and Pedrito. Henry is survived by his children Henry Jr. (Romy) of Las Cruces, Sally (Carl) of San Jose, CA, Manny of Las Cruces, Nancy (Victor) of Garfield and Art of Las Cruces. His 12 grandchildren Tammy, Benjamin, Yvette Leeann, Valerie, Victor Jr. , Monique, JC, Angela, Loretta, Ian, Tessie and Adriana. 13 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Charlie Serna Jr., Frank Pina Jr., Victor and JC Apodaca, Jeremiah Terrazas and Frank Angel, Honorary Pallbearers Benjamin Martinez and Jeremiah Terrazas Jr. LeeAnn Terrazas & Valerie Martinez. A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, 2014 from 5-7pm in the Getz Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Liturgy will be on Thursday, October 23, 2014 at 10AM at Our Lady Of Health Catholic Church. Rite of Committal to follow at St. Josephs Cemetery. PDF Printable Version