Deacon Donald Martinez

Donald Martinez 1937 - 2025 of Taos, passed away on Thursday December 18, 2025.

Donald is survived by his wife of 68 years, Celina: children Donald (Lorraine), Doris (Raymond), Donna (Lester d.), Dennis and Dominic; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; Siblings, Barbara (Robert), Francis (Tom d.), Anna and Michael (Linda d.). The Vigil family who became a part of the Martinez family, Gil (Terry) and family, James (Donna Lee) and family, Cathy (Phil d.) and family, and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his daughter Debbie; grandson Matthew; son-in-law Lester; parents Samuel and Juanita; brothers Danny, David and Sam; in-laws Manuel and Rosina; brothers-in-law Tom, Manuel and Joe and sister-in-law Linda.

Donald was born in Santa Fe and raised a devout Catholic by hard working parents that instilled in him his love of the Catholic faith and his strong work ethic. His love of football started at St. Michaels High School. He attended college in Texas but returned after missing New Mexico, family, and friends. He started working with Safeway as a carry out, during this time he met the love of his life Celina.

Donald and Celina were married in December 1957 and moved to Taos in 1964.

Donald worked his way up to assistant manager with Safeway in Santa Fe. The Safeway store in Taos needed a store manager and he took the job. Donald loved Taos and Taos loved Donald. Donald was very generous, he paid for groceries when someone needed them and was always there to lend a helping hand.

Donald retired from Safeway after 30 years of service when he found his true calling. He became a Deacon with the Catholic Church. Donald participated in the yearly 100-mile pilgrimage and made the walk over 40 years. The church and his faith were very important to him. He found great joy in helping people and being the example of his faith. He made himself available to anyone who needed him day and night.

Donald raised his children with many examples: I will not give you a fish, I will teach you to fish. Be the change you want in this world. Do the job right the first time. Believe in God, prayer, and family.

The family loved to hear him talk giving examples of his life and family. As a family, we would joke about who the bad examples were of.

Donald leaves us with an example of how to live your life and faith. Believe in God and take care of family.

Rosary will be recited on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 9:00am, Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00am, held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic church. 

The family of Donald Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com