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DEBRA SUSAN Beloved mother, daughter, sister, Debra Susan Martinez passed away in Albuquerque during the early morning hours of Wednesday, April 25, 2007. Debra is survived by her daughter, Sheila Martinez; parents, Roberto and Ramona Martinez; siblings, Roberta Sanchez, Doris Martinez and husband, Mark Wussler, Lawrence Martinez, and Robert Martinez Jr. and wife, Janice; her longtime companion, Pete Salazar; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins; and special friends especially in the music community. Debra was born in Denver, CO and spent most of her life in Albuquerque. A graduate of Manzano High School, Debra attended the University of Albuquerque and the University of Denver, after which she earned a law degree from the University of New Mexico. Most New Mexicans remember Debra as "La Chicanita," a name she went by as a singer of Mariachi music in the 1970s and 1980s. Debra loved Mariachi music and Mexico, having studied in Mexico City as a high school senior. An amazing musical performer, she is also remembered for her love of life, her passion for Mexico, her devotion to her Catholic faith, and her love of family. Debra cared so much for the local Mariachi music scene and gave much of herself to promote that musical form. Even losing her hearing in her early twenties did not deter her. She always found a way, assisting her daughter, Sheila, in her efforts to master that particular musical form and follow in her mother's footsteps. She is deeply loved and will be greatly missed. A Rosary will be recited Sunday, April 29, 2007, 7:00 p.m., at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, Lomas at Tennessee. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, April 30, 2007, 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Immigration Program at Catholic Charities, 6001 Marble NE, 87110. French Mortuary 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE 275-3500 www.frenchmortuary.com
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