Manuel A. Martinez

Manuel Arturo Martinez, 80 years old, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on December 12, 2020. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Norma; his daughters and sons-in-law, Deborah Goodman (David), Brenda Bailey (Greg), Sandra Whitehead (Garrick); 14 grandchildren; and siblings Reinaldo Martinez (Lily), Irma Giron (Jose), Grace Villarreal, Jimmy Martinez, Lupe C. Martinez, and Sukie Sanders. Manuel grew up in San Elizario and graduated from Ysleta High School. He earned his BA and MA degrees in Art from New Mexico State University. He served in the U.S. Army as an Armor Intelligence Specialist, then after being honorably discharged, had a long career as a technical editor at Fort Bliss. He taught art classes for 35 years to military spouses at the Sergeants Major Academy. After retiring he enjoyed working as a substitute teacher for 10 years. His hobbies included riding horses, working outdoors, and caring for his many farm animals and pets. He was a very talented artist and enjoyed drawing, painting, and refurbishing saddles which he sold at the flea market each Sunday. He loved western movies and all things related to that time period. He is best remembered for his great sense of humor and how he loved and served his family. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM with Military Honors at 9:45 AM and a Funeral Service at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at Sunset Funeral Homes – East, 750 N. Carolina. Interment will take place at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. The service will be live streamed on the Sunset Funeral Home’s website/Facebook page. Livestream will be available beginning at 9:30 AM on Sunset Funeral Homes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunsetfuneralhome www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net