Jose C. Martinez, 77, died Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 at his home in Liberal.

As the first son of the Martinez Calderon family to cross the border into the U.S., he created opportunities for his parents, brothers, and sisters.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Irene.

He was a loving father who cherished his three daughters and took great pride in his son, who stood beside him in work and in life. His grandchildren were a light of his life.

He enjoyed riding his horses, caring for his animals, and spending time on his land.

He is survived by his wife, Irene Vargas, son, Jose Alberto Martinez; three daughters: Leticia Arredondo, Purisima Guadalupe Sepulveda, and Oralia Olivia Baeza; six brothers: Gilberto Martinez, Manuel Martinez, Ernesto Martinez, Rojelio Martinez, Rosauro Martinez, and Alfredo Martinez; sisters, Hortencia Martinez and Bertha Martinez; 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel Martinez and Guadelupe Calderon Velasquez; and brother, Jose Socorro Martinez.

• Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, 2026 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church at 1510 N. Calhoun Avenue in Liberal.

Funeral Mass will be at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, with Reverend Charles Seiwert presiding.

Burial will follow at the Liberal City Cemetery in Liberal. 

Condolences may be left at www.hornungfuneralhome.com.