Ronald Thomas Martinez, lovingly known around town as Julio, suddenly passed away on September 17, 2026 surrounded by his family. Ron was born on August 7, 1954, in Del Norte, Colorado, to Joe and Eloisa Martinez. One of ten children, Ron grew up surrounded by family, community, and the deep roots of the San Luis Valley.
Ron later married the love of his life, Nancy, and together they shared 47 years of devoted marriage. Their greatest joy was their son, Thomas, and later their grandson, Thomas Jr., whom Ron cherished deeply. The bond between Ron and his grandson was inseparable; wherever one was, the other was close by.
Known throughout town for his gentle spirit and friendly nature, Ron was often seen riding his bike with his beloved dog Shilo perched on his shoulder — a sight that brought smiles to everyone who passed by. When he wasn’t riding, Ron could be found sitting on his front porch, greeting neighbors, chatting with passersby, and making new friends. There wasn’t a person who walked by that Ron didn’t welcome with conversation, kindness, or a story.
Ron loved to fish, yet his favorite hobby and most rewarding was picking pinion nuts. He enjoyed the outdoors and treasured the simple rhythms of small‑town life. He worked for the Mountain Mail newspaper for many years, where he formed countless long-lasting friendships and became a familiar, trusted face in the community.
One of Ron’s favorite memories was the adventure he shared with his best friend Dave Quintana and his brother‑in‑law Joe Lopez. After hearing a movie was being filmed in Canon City, the three headed out to see if they could be part of it — and they were. They proudly appeared as extras in the film The Women of San Quentin, a story Ron loved to tell.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents; his brother Marvin Martinez; sister Yvonne Martinez I , father‑in‑law Joe Martinez; brothers‑in‑law Rudy Martinez, Fred Gonzales, and John Prosser; sisters‑in‑law Cathy Gonzales and Brenda Martinez; and nephew Julian Gonzales. He is survived by his devoted wife Nancy; his son Thomas; his grandson Thomas Jr.; his mother‑in‑law Bernice Martinez; and his siblings: Gifford (Ruth) Martinez of Lakewood, David Martinez of Del Norte, Anthony (Felice) Martinez of Del Norte, Joyce Prosser of Salida, Yvonne (Mario) Dominguez of Del Norte, Nedra Martinez of Del Norte, and Toni (Roddy Chacon) Quintana of Del Norte, as well as many Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, Aunts and Uncles.
A service honoring Ron’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3rd, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Living Waters Assembly of God Church, located at 5300 US‑50, Salida, CO 81201. Ron will be dearly missed by his family, his friends, and the entire community who knew him as a man of warmth, humor, and unwavering friendliness. His presence made Salida feel like home, and his memory will continue to do so.
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