Ross Ignacio Martinez

Ross Ignacio Martinez, beloved husband, father, and friend, journeyed to be with the Lord Jesus
peacefully on September 15, 2023, at the young age of 67 surrounded by his loving family.
Ross was born on December 27th, 1955, in Durango, Colorado to Jose Ben and Mary Fern
Martinez. He had siblings by the name of Benjamin Isiidore, Joseph Alex, and Nancy Beverly.
Graduating from Bayfield High School in 1975, Ross went on to serve 20 years in the United
States Air Force retiring honorably in 1995 and moving back to Bayfield, Colorado.
In 1979, while stationed at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas, Ross married his first wife
Annie Chairez. They had two children together, Anthony and Zack. Ross and his family lived in
numerous places within the United States as well as the world from Korea to Japan courtesy of
the U.S. government.
After retiring from the Air Force, Ross married his 2nd wife, the late Linda Wyatt of Superior,
Nebraska, at a fabulous celebration at the old Sky Ute Casino in 1998. After decades of a fruitful
happy marriage Ross and Linda became guardians of their grandson Jacoby Espenhover.
Ross was a man of many interests enjoying fishing, traveling, camping, and hanging out with
family. He was also a big sports fan and loved cheering on all Colorado teams especially the
Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, and the Colorado Avalanche. He got the chance to finally
witness the Denver Nuggets become champions; something he waited decades to see.
Ross was a kind and compassionate person. He was always willing to help others, and made
the world a better place. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Ross is survived by his children, Anthony and Zack; his grandchildren, Payton, AJ, and Jacoby;
and his siblings, Isidore and Beverly. He was predeceased by his wife Linda Wyatt in May 2023;
his parents, Ben and Fern; and brother Alex.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Hood
Mortuary located at 1261 E. 3rd Ave. in Durango, Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choosing.