Phillip Martinez

Phillip Martinez passed on September 9, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. 

Phillip was born on September 11, 1962, to Nedra Thompson and Max Martinez Sr.

Phillip was a survivor of the Federal Boarding School era and attended the Southern Ute Dormitory from 1967 to 1981. His time in the Dorms brough many opportunities including his lifelong love of the sport of boxing. He was a Golden Gloves boxer and almost made it to the Olympic Trials in the 1980s. 

Phillip was a founding member, and later Chairman, of the Southern Ute Boxing Commission and shared his passion of boxing with the Four Corners region by helping facilitate boxing events at the Sky Ute Casino for over 15 years.

Phillip worked for the Southern Indian Tribe for over 20 years and worked in many departments including the Environmental Programs Department, SunUte Community Center, Forestry, and Range Divisions. One of the things he was most proud of was being a firefighter and fighting the Blackridge Fire in the 1990s.

During his time at the SunUte Community Center, Phillip was a coach of basketball, soccer, and softball. He was mentor to many local youths.

Phillip spent his time watching movies, listening to music, working on crafts, woodworking, and artwork. 

He is proceeded in death by his mother, Nedra Thompson; father, Max Martinez Sr.; brothers, Joseph Martinez, Donald Martinez Sr., Max Martinez; Uncle, William Thompson; Aunt, Florence Williams. 

He is survived by his longtime companion of 31 years, MariaEliza Trujillo; children, September Martinez, Savannah Martinez, Fabian Martinez; step-daughter, Victoria Trujillo; siblings, Dennis Washington, John Washington, Clara Washington, Gilbert Washington, Irvin Casias, Valentino Vasquez, Chris Winterhawk, Matthew Martinez; grandchildren, Javan Farr, Kayson Farr, Braylin Farr, Cameron Henry; his adopted grandson, Lane Frost; his furry companions, Bruce, Coco, and Monster; and numerous nephews, nieces, cousin too numerous to list.

A Wake at 5:00pm will be held at the Multi-Purpose Facility (Chapel) in Ignacio, Colorado on Tuesday, September 17. A Rosary and Memorial Mass will be held at St. Ignatius Catholic Church at 9:30am on Wednesday, September 18.