David Martinez
November 2, 1949 — July 11, 2017
David Martinez was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico on November 2, 1949. He entered Heaven's gates on July 11, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer. A wonderful husband, father, son, brother, hard worker, avid problem solver, Crown aficionado and a great friend. During his 38+ year career with NASA, he supported the shuttle program from its inception to its retirement. Prior to h...
David Martinez was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico on November 2, 1949. He entered Heaven's gates on July 11, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer. A wonderful husband, father, son, brother, hard worker, avid problem solver, Crown aficionado and a great friend. During his 38+ year career with NASA, he supported the shuttle program from its inception to its retirement. Prior to his retirement, his work with NASA's Super Guppy Airlift operations was one of his greatest accomplishments. David, a natural born leader, had the ability to see in others what they could not see in themselves. Always staying positive, even with faced with the worst situations. Never one to shy away from new adventures, David's life included serving his nation's military in the Air Force as a Vietnam Veteran. He was a cowboy, a skier, world class pool player, hunter, and avid race car fan. He met the love of his life, Susie, while studying at New Mexico State University. A whirlwind romance that stood the test of time and together they shared a journey paved with children, animals, careers, grandchildren, vacations and lifelong friendships. David faced life with a positive attitude and outlook. We will remember his smile, energy, and his outrageous sense of humor. He valued family over everything and his passion for life will live in the hearts of everyone who knew him. David's 10-year battle brought out scores of beautiful angels in the way of nurses, doctors, assistants, and staff....
David Martinez was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico on November 2, 1949. He entered Heaven's gates on July 11, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer. A wonderful husband, father, son, brother, hard worker, avid problem solver, Crown aficionado and a great friend. During his 38+ year career with NASA, he supported the shuttle program from its inception to its retirement. Prior to his retirement, his work with NASA's Super Guppy Airlift operations was one of his greatest accomplishments. David, a natural born leader, had the ability to see in others what they could not see in themselves. Always staying positive, even with faced with the worst situations. Never one to shy away from new adventures, David's life included serving his nation's military in the Air Force as a Vietnam Veteran. He was a cowboy, a skier, world class pool player, hunter, and avid race car fan. He met the love of his life, Susie, while studying at New Mexico State University. A whirlwind romance that stood the test of time and together they shared a journey paved with children, animals, careers, grandchildren, vacations and lifelong friendships. David faced life with a positive attitude and outlook. We will remember his smile, energy, and his outrageous sense of humor. He valued family over everything and his passion for life will live in the hearts of everyone who knew him. David's 10-year battle brought out scores of beautiful angels in the way of nurses, doctors, assistants, and staff. The family would like to send special gratitude to Jamie and Dr. Portillo at Texas Oncology; The professional staff at Mayo Clinic and Sherman House Hospice. To the hidden heroes at Mesilla Valley Hospice who went above and beyond with endless compassion, care, and attention. David is survived by his loving wife, Susie; daughters Katherine Johnson and Melyssa Martinez; grandchildren, Aiden Johnson and Amaris Martinez; sisters Dori, Gina, and brother Dennis; father Dorotea. His loving dogs; Coco, Maxine, and Maddie. Granddogs; Wally and Ginger. He is proceeded in death by his mother Florence; Father and Mother-in-law Carl and Virgina Sims. A prayer vigil will take place on Friday, July 21, 2017, at 9:30 AM, at Our Lady of Purification Catholic Church, in Dona Ana, NM. The memorial mass and military honors will immediately follow the prayer vigil. All are welcome to attend and celebrate David's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Mesilla Valley Hospice at 299 Montana Ave, Las Cruces, NM. PDF Printable Version Service Information
Friday, July 21, 2017 10:00am,
Our Lady of Purification Catholic Church
Address Not Available
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