Ruben M. Martinez

Ruben M Martinez born on June 8th,1956, aged 68, passed away on September 21, 2024, after a courageous battle with stage 4 bladder cancer. He departed peacefully at his home in Albuquerque surrounded by his loving wife.

Ruben was predeceased by his mother in law Lilly Armijo, Brother in law Orlando Armijo. His mother Esther, Father(step) Joe Alex Garnand, and father Joe Martinez.

Ruben is survived by his loving family, including his wife of 41 years Nina, their daughter Adrienne, husband Brandon and children Jaieson and Makayla, and their daughter Shawny and husband Neils. 

He cherished spending time with his grandchildren. From teaching Jaieson new things to playing outside with Makayla they will miss him dearly. He loved to send all children home dirty from playing outside,having fun, making memories, and usually from cookies and ice cream.

He valued and loved his brother Joe Leonard Martinez, and son Alex. His brother in law Steve Apodaca wife Melissa, children Andrew, his God daughter Lauren, husband Zack and their children Amari and Aubree. His sister Karen and husband Loren. 

Many more loved ones with a large blended family, including a (deceased) son, and daughter from previous relationships.

He recently found his extended family from his biological dad who he wished he could have met, and other siblings.

Ruben was a proud military veteran who bravely served his country. He loved taking snacks and goodies to his friends and workers at the VA. He loved baking, fishing and visiting the casinos. Despite facing the challenges of his multiple illnesses, he remained a beacon of hope and strength to all who knew him. 

Throughout his life, Ruben embodied helpfulness and hardwork. Though he was not perfect his legacy of love will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in his journey.

His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his strength will continue to inspire generations to come.

He will also be greatly missed by his beloved best friend and companion Zero,his pug, his faithful furry friend who was always by his side.

A private celebration of Rubens life will be held at a later date. 

A golden heart stopped beating,

Hard working hands at rest,

It broke our hearts to see you go,

God only takes the best.

They say that memories are golden,

Well maybe that is true,

But we never wanted memories,

We only wanted you.

Your life was love and labour,

Your love for your family true,

You did your best for all of us,

We will always remember you.

We sat beside your bedside,

Our hearts were crushed and sore,

We did our duty to the end,

‘Til we could do no more.

In tears we watched you sinking,

We watched you fade away,

And though our hearts were breaking,

We knew you could not stay.

May Ruben rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and may he be remembered for the love and light he brought into the lives of others.