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Gilbert Martinez, USAF, Col. (Ret), 74, a resident of Albuquerque for 30 years, died Tuesday, August 18, 2009. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Regina Martinez; daughters, Patti Martinez, Rose Benedict, Eve Juarez and husband, Victor and Cathy Martinez; seven grandchildren, Ryan Rust and wife, Jen, Brent Benedict, Shea Benedict, Alexa Juarez, Hannah Juarez, Jordyn Harney, and Kelsey Harney; sister, Josephine Rodriguez; and numerous other relatives and friends. Gil was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; and one brother. He was born on May 19, 1935 in Raton, NM to Joe and Mary Martinez. Gil grew up in California where he graduated from high school in Fresno. After high school he joined the United States Air Force where he proudly served until his retirement. During his Air Force career he served as a navigator flying B-47's, B-52's and was the first Hispanic to fly the SR-71 Blackbird. He retired as Vice-Commander of Kirtland Air Force Base in 1979. Gil then went on to receive his Master's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of New Mexico. He taught second graders in Albuquerque Public Schools for 13 years. Following his retirement from education, Gil served as AARP State President for New Mexico. He was responsible for the development of the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Library where he served on the board and spent countless hours establishing the library. Gil's greatest love was his family and supporting their many outside interests. He was a long-time member of Our Lady of Annunciation Parish, serving as a Eucharistic Minister. Gil was a devoted veteran to his country. He was a loving husband, father and "Popo" to his grandchildren. Gil will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Friends may visit French Mortuary, Wyoming Blvd. Chapel Sunday, August 23, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Rosary will be recited by the Marianites at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church, Claremont and Vermont Streets, Monday, August 24, 2009, 8:30 a.m., with Father Voorhies, Celebrant. Interment will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery with full military honors at 11:00 a.m. A final celebration honoring Gil will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott, 5151 Journal Center Blvd. from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to New Mexico Veterans Memorial, P.O. Box 8389, Albuquerque, NM 87198-8389. Please visit our online guestbook for Gil at RememberTheirStory.com French 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400
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