Jesus Valentino Tino Martinez passed away peacefully on Aug. 30, 2012, in California after a long illness. He was born Feb. 9, 1952 in Los Angeles, Calif.
With heavy hearts his family mourns his passing but find peace in knowing he is in heaven. Tino was the kindest man you could have ever been blessed to meet. Tino was a bleeding heart for animals and the needy. He would never hesitate to take in a stray pet or a homeless human. Tino would give the shirt off his back and his last dollar bill. He was a kind and fun-loving father to his children, Cynthia and Christopher. Tino had an adventurous spirit and was always forcing his kids to keep up with him rafting, bicycling, golfing and having barbecues. He never closed a door on anyone and embraced everyone. He had a kind word to say to everyone who crossed his path and a joke to send them on their way.
Tino was a man of many talents. He was a great carpenter, chef, blackjack dealer, pit boss, golfer, and foster dog parent. A 12-year resident of Mancos, Tino worked for many years at the Sky Ute Lodge & Casino and the Ute Mountain Casino, where he made many friends. Due to his illness he was unable to work for the last years of his life, but he was always willing to help a neighbor or go rescue a dog.
Tino is survived by his children, Cynthia Martinez, Chris Martinez and stepson, Levon Stilson; his mother, Carmen Martinez; sister, Lillian Herrera and husband Sergio; brothers, John Martinez and wife Sheila, and Danny Martinez and wife Diane.
He is preceded in death by his father, John.
It was Tinos belief that kind words never die. Please do something kind for another person or animal to honor Tinos memory. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite animal charity.