Charles Roy Martinez II

Charles “Chuck” Roy Martinez II, age 60, a resident of Ranchos de Taos, passed away unexpectedly on January 31^st at home. Born to Charles “Roy” and Betty Martinez at Holy Cross Hospital in Taos on October 28^th 1962, Chuck grew up in Taos where he enjoyed riding his horse “Güero”, lifeguarding, and skiing every chance he got. Leaving home with the support of his loving parents at the age of 17, Chuck was a 1980 Graduate of Taos High School when he was given special permission to enlist in the U.S. Coast Guard. Faithfully serving in the USCG for 20 years, Chuck retired as Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9) after spending seven-plus years at sea in locations including the Arctic Circle, Bering Sea, Caribbean Sea, and the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Chuck concluded his military career on-shore with posts in St. Louis, MO, Virginia Beach, VA and ultimately USCG headquarters in Washington, D.C. During his years of military service, Chuck studied for and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Columbia College, graduating with honors in 1998.

After military service, Chuck worked in the corporate offices for Save-A-Lot Food Stores, Ltd. in the St. Louis area for 17 years in areas ranging from training specialist to project manager in many service areas. Notably, Chuck’s time in St. Louis can be recognized for his active participation in The American Legion post #397. For the last five years, Chuck took his passion of helping people as an insurance agent in Missouri, Tennessee, and finally with the Knights of Columbus as a field agent in Northern New Mexico where Chuck was also elevated to the 4th Degree in the Knights of Columbus as a member of Council #7313 in Taos and Santiago #3560 State Assembly. Within the KofC, Chuck participated with the Honor Guard at local sporting events and Santa Fe Archdiocesan Liturgies. Always seeking a mission to serve those less fortunate than him, Chuck was particularly passionate in supporting and organizing the “Coats for Kids” campaign. Since returning home to Taos, Chuck quickly became active in the Fraternal Order of Eagles and enjoyed spending time there with his many friends.

Chuck is survived by his Mamacita, Betty Martinez; Sister, Cristina Martinez; Son, Charles Martinez III (Erin) of Nashville, TN; Daughter, Brittany (Alexa) also of Nashville; stepson Jason Engebretson (Katie) of St. Louis, MO; step-daughter Kristin Wayman of Austin, TX; Grandchildren Ania, Catherine Rose, Charles IV “Carlito”, and Regina. Nephews Vicente (Daniela) and Zach Martinez. Niece Sophia Martinez and many close relatives in the Taos, NM area.

Chuck was predeceased by his Father “Roy” (†2016), brother Paul (†1996), wife Margaret (†2017), and nephews Matias (†2010) and Nataniel Mondragon (†2013).

Chuck enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, playing golf and tennis, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys and St. Louis Cardinals, and volunteering countless hours in support of veterans and the local communities in which he lived throughout his life.

Rosary will be recited on Thursday, February 9^th, 2023, at 6pm at San Francisco de Asís Catholic Church in Ranchos de Taos, led by the Knights of Columbus. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am Friday, February 10^th, 2023, also at San Francisco de Asís Catholic Church. All are invited to prayerfully participate as we commit Chuck’s soul to the Lord. Burial will take place at a later date in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

The Fraternal Order of Eagles is sponsoring a reception at 1016 Dea Lane in Taos on Friday, February 10^th following the funeral Mass. All are welcome to come celebrate and commemorate Chuck’s life.

The family of Charles “Chuck” Roy Martinez II has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos.  866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com