Arthur Martinez

Arthur "Art" M. Martinez, 50, passed away on June 21, 2008. He was cared for and surrounded by loved ones after a short struggle with pancreatic cancer.
Art was born on April 6, 1958 in Taos New Mexico to Tito Martinez and Sophie Pacheco. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother David and his father-in-law Dionicio Baca. He is survived by his partner and wife of 30 years, Cathy Baca-Martinez, his brother George Cook, his wife Lyndee and their children Cassandra, Nicholas, Carissa, Natalie and Christian; his sister Catherine Gerry, her husband Reid Dalland and their son Konrad. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Lucille Baca and his God-child, Nichole Garcia, aunts uncles, cousins, nieces nephews in-laws and countless friends.
Art was an avid sports fan traveling regularly to Denver to support his beloved Broncos. He also belonged to a local chess club often playing and winning tournaments earning him the title of "Champ". He graduated from Taos High School in 1976 and managed the Taos Trading Post for his brother George over the past several years.
Art had a strong sense of family, friendship and community. This was exhibited by his constant love and caring for others, particularly for the less fortunate and animals in need. He was never too busy to lend a helping hand or a sympathetic ear to someone in need. For the past few years, he served the community by acting as the Mayordomo of his Acequia Association
His passing is an enormous loss to many of us; it is as though a light has been turned off in our lives.
We will always remember Art for his kindness, his compassion, his selfless giving, his great love and appreciation for the natural beauty of Mother Earth.
We love you Art, you will be greatly missed may you rest in peace. Love and Gratitude.

An evening service was held on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at Rivera Chapel. Funeral service was held on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at the Ranchos de Taos Presbyterian Church.