Palemon A. Martinez

Palemon A. Martinez passed away peacefully at home on February 10, 2024, three weeks shy of his 92^nd birthday. He was preceded in deathby his wife of 64 years, Neoma V. Martinez, parents Maximiano and Juanita Martinez and siblings, Elisa Archuleta, Soledad Anaya, Levinio Martinez, Jose Martinez, Raquel Garcia, Epifanio Martinez, Elvira Sahd and Robert Martinez as well as his in-laws Alejandro and Maclovia Valdez, brothers-in-law Antonio Valdez, Luis Lucero and Joe G. Martinez, sister-in-law Emily Valdez and nephews Paul and David Roy Lucero. He is survived by his daughters Marian Girmus (Ron), Lisa Garcia (Frank), granddaughters Erica Newman (RD), Marissa Garcia and great grandchildren Kyla and Jesse along with sisters and brothers in law Flora (Faustin) Gonzales, Mercedes Lucero, Olivia Martinez, Arturo Valdez and Teresina Valdez and many loving nieces and nephews.

Palemon was born in Arroyo Seco and at a young age decided he wanted to attend New Mexico State University to pursue his education in Agriculture which he did. A story many may remember is that his dad gave him the ultimatum of being a sheep herder or continuing his education. After working for NMSU for over 30 years, he retired in 1987 and then transitioned to becoming a volunteer for his community of Arroyo Seco, Taos County and New Mexico on many issues related to agriculture, ranching, acequias and complex water issues facing the traditional communities of Northern New Mexico. He was recognized throughout his career and beyond for his contributions to the people of New Mexico. In 2000, under President Bill Clinton he was appointed to the original Valles Caldera Trust Board of Trustees. He was also appointed by Governor Bruce King to serve on the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission. He had vast knowledge on many issues facing residents of New Mexico. He never compromised his commitment to the Acequias; always speaking his mind and from his heart. He also initiated the preservation and contributed to La Santisima Trinidad Catholic Church Arroyo Seco restoration project in his home village. His love for northern New Mexico and ranching also led him to establish Valdez Land and Cattle LLC where he and family partners have grazed their cattle on public land to this day. 

He has met many people throughout his life and they all have unique stories of their interactions with Palemon that define the character and poise that he maintained both professionally and as a volunteer of many causes.

Rosary will be recited on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 9:00am followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 10:00am at Holy Trinity Parish in Arroyo Seco.  Burial will be on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 1:00pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asked that donations be made to La Santisima Trinidad Catholic Church in Arroyo Seco or to any charity of your choice.

The family of Palemon A. Martinez have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com