Eli J. “Chuco Lee” Martinez, our loving father, passed away Sunday July 3, 2022 in Taos, N.M. He was 87 years old. Eli was born in Amalia, N.M. on August 13, 1934 to Philipe and Eloisa Martinez. He is preceded in death by his sons Randy and Jude Martinez, his parents Philipe and Eloisa Martinez, siblings Albert, David, Robert, Charlie and Bernadette.

He is survived by his siblings Prax, and Chente (Erma); children Eli (Shirley), Anthony, Marcie (Chris), Berna (Joe), Mary (Hector), Lola (Chad), David, Stephen and Becky (Mario); grandchildren Eli (Zeline), Nasario, Isaias (Liz), Julie, Johnathon (Nikki), Elijah, Nathanael, his babita Quanisha, Victor, Samuel, Joe Anthony, Rainy, Wesley, Domonic, Vanessa (Matt) Marissa, Brandy, Dedra, Destiny (Carlos), Victoria, Veronica, Carlos; and many more great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Our father loved and cherished his time with family and friends, visiting, playing cards, shooting pool, kayaking in California and singing. He loved to travel all over the country, especially his beloved New Mexico. He was a member of the Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association (RCCLA) and loved his mountains, hunting and fishing. He was a loving and giving man and helped and took in anyone who needed him. He made many friends along his travels.

Our father will be missed dearly by all the hearts he touched in this world. He was the best father and grandfather we could have ever asked for. Thank you, Lord, for blessing us with him. Special thank you to Maxine for loving and caring for our father. Also, Taos Living Center, thank you for showing our father such loving care and helping us, we will never forget all you did for our father.

Rosary was recited Wednesday July 13, 2022 followed by the Funeral Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Costilla, with luncheon following at the parish hall. The family of Eli J. “Chuco Lee” Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos.