Joe A. Martinez

Joe A. Martinez, Jr. 84, of Green River, passed away Oct.13, 2016 at his home with his family by his side.

A longtime resident of Green River, Martinez died following a brief illness. 

He was born on Nov. 24, 1931, in Mora, N.M., the son of Joe A. Martinez, Sr. and Rufine Cordova.

Martinez attended schools in Holman, N.M.

He married Phyllis E. Vigil Martinez in Rock Springs Nov. 17, 1957, and she preceded him in death on Feb. 28, 2012.  

Martinez was a United States Army Veteran of the Korean onflict and served from 1952 until 1954.

He was ranked a sargent. He also served in the National Guard for eight years. 

He was employed as a car man at the Union Pacific Railroad for 43 years and retired in September of 1993.

He was an avid Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies fan. He enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing and reminiscing about his Korean Conflict experience. 

Survivors include four sons, Michael C. Martinez and wife Marilyn, George Martinez and wife Charmi and Johnny Martinez; all of Green River, and Ernie Martinez and wife Jackie of Casper; six sisters, Ida Chailland, Audilia Ortega, Emma Martinez, all of Green River, Evie Duran of Mora, N.M., Carol Lucero Albuquerque, and Darlene Duran of Mora, N.M .; several nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren and grandchildren also survive. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Phyllis E. Martinez, two brothers and one sister. 

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life with military honors will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday at Golden Hour Senior Center in Green River. 

Condolences may be left at the http://www.vasefuneralhomes.com.