Lawrence Martinez

Lawrence Duane Martinez, 74, passed away in his home on April 4, 2024, in Rochester, MN.

He was born on August 19, 1949, to parents Eluterio and Della Martinez, in Walsenburg, Colorado.

Lawrence is survived by his wife of 51 years, Elaine Martinez; mother, Della Martinez; son, Jason (Nikki) Martinez of Royal Oak, Michigan; daughter, Melissa (Ben) Miland of Rochester, Minnesota; two grandsons, Tyler and Isaiah Miland; sister, Rina (Rudy) Garcia; brother, Gene (Sara) Martinez; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog, Cole. He is preceded in death by his father, Eluterio Martinez.

Lawrence was a Vietnam Veteran who served in the United States Navy. After his time in the service, he met and married Elaine Gallegos. They were both employed by IBM for over 25 years. He was an avid motorcyclist, camper, and fisherman. He also taught and excelled in martial arts. He enjoyed year-round softball in Arizona, where he and Elaine met many wonderful friends who became family. Lawrence was the family photographer. With a camera always in hand, he had an eye for amazing candid shots.

Lawrence and Elaine moved to Minnesota, where he was able to spend time with his two grandsons and watch them grow into fine young men. Lawrence will be missed by many.

A Memorial Service will be held in Minnesota at 4:00 pm on Friday, April 12, 2024, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes (5421 Royal Pl. NW, Rochester, MN 55901). Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date in Colorado, details on that to come. Inurnment will take place at Pike's Peak National Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Co.

Through the VA in Minneapolis, Melissa and Elaine were so fortunate to find Fisher House. Fisher House provides wonderful accomodations to veteran families free of charge while their loved ones are in the hospital. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fisher House at FisherHouse.org or by mail to P.O. Box 791598 Baltimore, MD 21279.

Ranfranz and Vine is honored to be serving the Martinez family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.