Joe D. “J.D.” Martinez died Wednesday March 22, 2023 at his home in Garden City, Kansas with his daughter LaVonda by his side. During his last weeks he was surrounded by his other children and grandchildren. He was born April 7, 1935 in Valdez, Colorado the son of Joe Canuto & Catlina (Sisneros) Martinez.

Joe moved to Kansas in 1966. He married Linda R. Morgan on July 3, 1976. She preceded him in death on February 14, 2005. He was employed briefly for DV Douglas, Womean Construction and 27 years for the City of Garden City before retiring. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and playing with his grandchildren. His favorite sentiment was “Steps belong outside not inside the family” He had an intuitive sense and could finish his children’s sentences. He was his children’s Hero and their Rock.

He is survived by his Children-Merlin (Cindy) Fry, Ron (Laurie) Fry, LaVonda Fry & Butch Romero, Victoria (Giles) Garcia, Louisa Martinez & Chaney (Tod) Hoskinson; Siblings- Floyd Martinez & Robert Martinez; 50 + grandchildren; 10+ great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his Children- Joe Martinez, Donny Martinez, & Ronnie Martinez; Siblings-Ermina “Mini” Saiz, Nestor Martinez, Ernest Martinez, Elvera Martinez, Richard Martinez, Sara Santistevan, Flora Bergamo & Mary Sergura & Grandson Frankie Martinez .

Visitation will be held 12:00- 8:00 pm Tuesday March 28, 2023 at Garnand Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 am Wednesday March 29, 2023 at Garnand Funeral Home with Pastor Michael Collins officiating. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery. The family requests memorials to the Joe D. Martinez Memorial Fund in Care of Garnand Funeral Home, 412 N 7th Street, Garden City, KS 67846