Alonzo Victor Martinez

Alonzo Victor Martinez, 76, passed away on March 26, 2026, in Pueblo, Colorado.

Born on July 9, 1949, in Alamosa, Colorado, Alonzo was the proud son of Susano J. Martinez and Elydia (Trujillo) Martinez. From the very beginning, he carried a strong spirit, a deep sense of loyalty, and a heart that made room for everyone.

Alonzo served honorably in the United States Navy, spending much of his time at sea and in foreign lands. He achieved the rank of E-3 and earned numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), and the Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal aboard the USS Midway. Leaders described him in performance reports as an outstanding asset who completed assignments with exceptional effectiveness.  He was known for his willingness to learn, his readiness to assist others, and for maintaining an appearance consistently above average-- neat and trim. With his humorous air and pleasant personality, he became one of the most popular men in his division.   

Back home, Alonzo was known far and wide as the “Mayor of Bessemer,” a title earned not by office, but by presence. He had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and important. Whether telling jokes, playing darts, or shooting pool, he brought laughter wherever he went. A few of his favorite sayings—“I’m no quitter,” or proudly declaring he was “number one” among his brothers with a grin and gesture, and his early Wednesday morning prank calls wishing “Happy Hump Day, Bueno Bye”—weren’t just words; they were a reflection of how he lived: resilient, lighthearted, and always moving forward.

To his family and friends, Alonzo was a steady and loving presence—trustworthy, loyal, and full of life. He found joy in the simple things: time spent together, shared stories, and laughter that lingered long after the moment had passed.

He was preceded in death by his son, Richard L. Martinez; grandson, Alonzo “AJ” S. Martinez Jr.; his parents, Susano J. Martinez and Elydia Trujillo Martinez; grandparents, Seledonio and Flora Martinez, and Manuel and Estefanita Trujillo; sisters, Mary Jane Martinez and Martie Stabile; brothers, Anthony “Tony” G. Martinez, Josephy R. Martinez, and Richard Martinez; cousin, George Trujillo; nephew, Nick Stabile; niece, Debbie Martinez; and his lifetime compadre, Ernie Samora.

Alonzo is survived by his son, Alonzo S. Martinez; daughter, Arvina Martinez; granddaughters, Elydia Martinez and Mariposa Martinez; brothers, Jose “Willie” Martinez and Val Martinez: sisters, Theresa Armijo, and Susan Soderquist; lifetime compadre, Henry Samora; 18 nieces and nephews; and countless extended family members and dear friends whose lives were brighter because of him.

Though he is no longer with us, Alonzo’s laughter lingers, his stories live on, and his spirit remains in every life he touched. He will be forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

We will always love him more...

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

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