Ralph Jr. Martinez

Ralph “Slabs” Martinez, Jr., 59, passed away on August 16, 2014, at his Rocky Ford home.

He was born on January 16, 1955 in Rocky Ford to Ralph & Mary (Roybal) Martinez, Sr.


Ralph touched many hearts and brought smiles to many faces. He had two special loves, his wife and daughter that he loved very much. He was a hardcore Denver Broncos fan and also enjoyed his nieces and nephews.


He is survived by his wife, Brenda Grano-Martinez of the Rocky Ford home; daughter, Ruby Gallegos of Rocky Ford; siblings, Johnny Gonzales of Rocky Ford; Mary (Roman) Arellano of Rocky Ford; Roger Gonzales of Denver; Jane (Tony) Burciago of Colorado Springs; Bobby Baca of New Mexico; Frances (Lee) Council of Colorado Springs; and Pat (Tammy) Martinez of Rocky Ford; numerous nieces & nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph, Sr. & Mary Martinez.


Special thanks to – Louise Madough of Lamar; and Trish, Caroline, & Kay of the Sangre De Cristo Hospice.


In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or Sangre De Cristo Hospice.



Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held on Friday, August 22, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m., at the St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rocky Ford with Father Paul Ekeh officiating. Interment will follow at the Rocky Ford Cemetery.