Ernesto P. Martinez

Ernesto P. Martinez passed on Monday, July 3, 2017 at the age of 91. He is a renowned international self-taught artist and muralist. He was an illustrator/artist for the federal government for more than 35 years, and a professor of Mexican/American art at El Paso Community College for nine years. He was born and raised in the poor barrios of South El Paso and understands first-hand the daily struggles of the Mexican origin population, the focus of his artistic production. Ernesto is considered one of the nation's leading Mexican-American artists. As a recognized figure of achievement in the field of art, he has been a frequent guest and speaker at many civic, religious, and military functions, many times with national and international personalities. This includes an appearance in Mexico City on the international program "Siempre en Domingo" with Raúl Velasco. Ernesto Martínez has been active in local community service and has commendably served our county in the military service. He served in W.W. II with Gen. Terry Allen's famed 104th "Timberwolf" Division in Europe. He was awarded the Bronze Star in combat, Combat Infantry Badge, and Battle Stars. He has served the community as:Commander Veterans of Foreign Wars Post # 9173, Vice-Commander American Legion #36,American GI Forum,Disabled American Veterans – Westside,1st Vice-President - Paisano Lions Club,Scoutmaster for Troops 17 and 39,Boys Scouts of America District Executive,Knights of Columbus,Rubén Salazar Foundation,L.U.L.A.C.,Contributing writer for the "El Paseño" newspaper art column,Ernesto is a frequent speaker in elementary and high schools. He also speaks at drug abuse centers to help abused and high risk children.,Speaker at U.T.E.P. conferences,Member of the Executive Advisory Board for Border Aids Partnership, Active in the "Chicano Movement" of 1960-1970. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary T. Martinez, his grandson David Marble. He is survived by his adult children; Irma Sierra, Ernie Martinez Jr. and his wife Norma, George Martinez, Lorraine Marble and her husband Dave Marble, Ralph Martinez and his wife Darla, 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 9, 2017 from 5:00PM to 9:00PM, with Holy Rosary at 7:00PM at Sunset Funeral Home-West. Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, July 10, 2017 at 11:00AM at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 1551 Belvidere. Interment will follow at 1:00PM at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West, 480 N. Resler Dr.