Modesto Martinez

Modesto Joe Martinez

Mo desto Joe Martinez, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend passed away August 10, 2014 surrounded by his loved ones. He was born December 11, 1943 in Del Norte, CO to Delfido and Josefita Martinez.  Joe was one of eleven children.

He was a US Marine and served our country from March 23, 1964 to March 22, 1970. While serving in the Vietnam War he was awarded a purple heart for his sacrifice he rendered in serving his country. He worked for Pillsbury Inc. and ended his career working for the US Postal Service. He served faithfully and retired as a Postal worker after 25 years. Joe, also known to many as “Moy” was a hard worker and made friends where ever he went, especially on his mail routes.

He is survived by his loving wife Joanne Overstreet Martinez of 42 years and 5 children. Michael (Kasi) Pierce, Sherry (Terry) Vadnais, Ronnie (Jennifer) Pierce, Anthony (Tiffany) Martinez and Tony Martinez. He is also the proud grandpa to 18 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way.

Preceded in death by parents, 1 brother and 3 sisters .

Joe loved entertaining everyone that entered his home by feeding them tortilla chips and his famous homemade salsa. Making others happy made him happy. He enjoyed many long walks and drives with his dog Smokey. The time spent with Smokey brought him much joy and peace. He was also always known to do anything and everything for the love of his life, Joanne. His silly jokes and corky ways will always be missed. The world will never be the same without him!

He was a fighter! First surviving a lung transplant then lymphoma, he was suddenly taken from us by complications from Pneumonia. We want to give a special thanks to all of his doctors and nurses that cared for him during his stay at the University of Utah ICU. We are grateful for their unconditional care and persistence.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 16, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 No. Fairfield Road.  Friends may visit family Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the mortuary.  Interment, Lindquist’s Memorial Park at Layton, 1867 No. Fairfield Road.