Jose Antonio "Galento" Martinez

Jose Antonio (Galento) Martinez, 79, of Los Luceros went to be with our lord unexpectedly Sunday, September 24, 2017. Galento was born June 17, 1938 in La Villita to Seferino & Sabinita Martinez. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers; Orlando, Andronico, Seferino (Tito), Tobias (Walas) & Juan (Brito) Martinez. Granddaughter Nicholl Martinez and other nephews.

Galento was employed with the Telephone Company & Underground Electric Company for many years as a lineman and foreman. His passion in life was his horses. He was an exceptional horse trainer. Galento was a very hard worker all his life. He worked hard at the ranch in Los Luceros and took a lot of pride in keeping it up until the end of his life. Galento’s biggest passion was to share the culture in his community of Alcalde. Galento was the organizer/coordinator for his beloved Los Comanches de Alcalde for most of his life. Along with Los Matachines. Galento was so proud of his Rainbow Dancers, which consisted of his daughters and family. He also served in the La Cofradia de La Morada de Alcalde. Galento loved to attend all the fiestas from the surrounding communities. He loved his visits to the casino. He also played a role in the movie "Red Sky at Morning" in the early 70's. Wherever they needed extras he wanted to be part of it. He sure loved to shine in the spotlight! Galento enjoyed listening and watching his very special son in law Johnny Sanchez y Puro Norte band perform. Galento had an amazing sense of humor. Always happy, saying jokes, laughing, smiling, and socializing with people.

Galento is survived by his children; Michael (Moreno) & (Elsie) Martinez, Joseph (Chefo) Martinez, Annette & (Johnny) Sanchez, Kevin & (Erica) Martinez, Anthony Garcia, Jill Archuleta, Pamela Garcia, Susanna & (Benny) Trujillo, Eleanor Garcia, Bruce Garcia & like a daughter Angelica Garcia. Galento’s very special friend that he loved so much Marie Markesteyn and her family. 20 grandchildren and 14 great great grandchildren. Special niece Lillian Martinez and many nephews and nieces. Galento’s very special pet dog that he was so attached to and he loved so much “Maverick”.

A Rosary will be recited on Wednesday, September 27, 2017, 7:00 PM, at the Rivera Family Funeral Home, Espanola, New Mexico

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2017, 12:00 PM, at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Alcalde, New Mexico with Interment to follow at La Villita Cemetery in Alcalde.

Serving the family as Honorary pallbearers; Willie Dupree, Sandy Roybal, Joseph Maestas, Ricardo Sanchez, Felipe Rivera & grandchildren.

The Family of Jose Martinez have entrusted the care of their loved one to Rivera Family Funeral Home and Crematory of Espanola, NM.