Gilbert E. Martinez passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family on Wednesday May 13, 2026 at the age of 85. Gilbert was born on January 15, 1941 to Frank and Louisa M. (Trujillo) Martinez in Ledoux, NM. As a young child, he moved with his parents to Mora, NM and in 1950 migrated to Leadville, CO which would become his permanent home. He met and married Ida (Trujillo) Martinez on May 17, 1958. Together they raised five children: Gilbert “Pat”, Joan, Noreen, Gerald and Rodney. As a young man, he worked for the railroad and then Gilman mine from 1958-1961. The majority of his career was as a miner and heavy equipment operator for the Climax Mine from which he retired after 34+ years. Following his retirement, he worked for Hollingsworth Excavating and FirstBank of Vail.

Gilbert was a lifelong member of Holy Family Parish where he served as an usher and altar server. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping snowmobiling and bowling. He was an avid Colorado Sports fan (Rockies, Broncos, Nuggets & Avalanche) with a particular passion for the Rockies and Broncos.

Gilbert is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ida; Daughters Joan (Leonard) Gonzales, and Noreen (Darryl) Flores; Sons Gerald and Rodney (Shannon) Martinez; Grandchildren Nikki (Adam) Bazinet, Brittany and Karissa Martinez, Jeanelle (Danny) Madigan, Monique (Troy) Vigil, David Salazar, Krysta, Michelle, and Gerald Jr. Martinez, Aleisha, Rodney Jr. (Ashley) and Trisha Martinez as well as 19 great grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters Dora (Paul) Mascarenas, Mary (Emilio) and Ruby Martinez and brothers Orlando (Nellie), Joe (Vivian), and Fred (Gloria) Martinez, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by son, Gilbert P. Martinez; his parents, brothers Maximino, Frank P., Alfonso, Louis, Eddie (Poncho), and Anthony (Tony) Martinez; Sisters Maria Senida Maes, and Benny Vigil,

A Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Friday June 5, 2026 beginning at 10:00AM followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:30AM both at Annunciation Catholic Church 7th and Poplar, Leadville Colorado. The Graveside Service will be held immediately following the Mass at Saint Joseph Cemetery. A reception honoring Gilbert will follow at Leadville Elks Lodge.

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