Gabriel Martinez

Gabriel Gene Martinez, age 62, passed away on May 23, 2025, in Chandler, Arizona.

Born and raised in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Gabriel was a proud graduate of Santa Fe High School, Class of 1981. A talented athlete, he played football and wrestled, and was part of the legendary 1979 state championship football team—the only time Santa Fe High has taken the state title.

After high school, Gabriel joined the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS AJAX in San Diego, California. There, he met the love of his life, Elizabeth (Liz) Martinez, just as she was beginning her own Navy career. After only six months of dating, they married on July of 1985, beginning nearly 40 years of devoted partnership.

Gabriel and Liz welcomed their first child, Gabriel Gene Martinez Jr., followed by Selina Martinez, and Matthew Martinez, completing their family of five. Gabe found his post-military calling working in the San Diego shipyards as a rigger before relocating his young family to Rio Rancho, New Mexico, in 1993 to be closer to extended family.

In Rio Rancho, Gabe became a cornerstone of the community, coaching football, wrestling, and basketball, and mentoring dozens of young athletes, including his own children. His selfless dedication and presence made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Gabe is a proud UA member of Local 412 Plumbers & Pipefitters Union and held multiple licenses in the field in New Mexico and Arizona. In 2004, Gabriel and Liz founded Jack’s Mechanical Solutions, Inc., a family-run mechanical company that grew into a respected business across New Mexico, Arizona, and even New York. Gabe was twice elected as the president of the Mechanical Contractors Association of New Mexico. Gabe was more than just an owner—he was a mentor and father figure to his employees, many of whom became lifelong friends.

In recent years, Gabe’s greatest joy was being “Papas” to his seven beloved grandchildren: Angelina, Valentina, Sol, Atlas, Chloe, Gabriel III, and Santos. He cherished every moment spent with them—babysitting, school drop-offs, and teaching them how to drive. His presence, humor, and guidance were constants in their lives.

Gabe was a connoisseur of Ford vehicles with a keen interest in Broncos and Raptors, which he had two of each. He had a deep love for food of all variates and an adventurous palette, always looking forward to trying new food. He had great taste in music loving nothing more than to jam to a rock ballad or get the Led out with some Zepplin. Also, he lived his life devoted to fitness and lifting weights. He constantly pushed the limits of physical strength with his wife, daughter, and two sons. The gym was always a place for family, peace, and grueling workouts.

Gabriel is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Martinez; children Gabriel Jr. & his wife Lisa Martinez, Selina & her husband Josiah Martinez, and Matthew and the mother of his children Felicia Garcia & Sasha Reyes; and grandchildren Angelina, Valentina, Sol, Atlas, Chloe, Gabriel III, and Santos. His father Fred Martinez, Mother Joanna Salazar and his brothers Alonzo, Eric and Daniel. He was preceded in death by his brother Rodney Martinez and sister Anastacia Martinez.

Gabriel Gene Martinez lived a life of strength, love, discipline, generosity, encouragement and service. His legacy lives on in his family, his business, and the many lives he lifted along the way. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

• A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Albuquerque Rail Yards, 777 1st St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102.
• A reception will follow from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort, 1300 Tuyuna Trail, Santa Ana Pueblo, NM 87004.

Flowers may be sent to:

French Funerals & Cremations

9300 Golf Course Rd NW

Albuquerque, NM 87114