Jake C. Martinez
12.24.25
Jake C. Martinez
April 22, 1936 – December 24, 2025
Jacob “Jake” C. Martinez, 89, of Rocky Ford, Colorado peacefully passed away
Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at Bluestem Village in La Junta, Colorado
surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 22, 1936, in Trinidad, Colorado
to Elias & Antonia (Cordova) Martinez.
Jake graduated from Trinidad State Junior College in Trinidad, CO then went on to
earn his Master’s degree in Education from Adams State College in Alamosa, CO.
Jake then embarked on his teaching career starting in Springer, New Mexico, before
moving to Colorado, where he became a beloved figure in the Manzanola, Rocky
Ford and La Junta school systems. He dedicated 27 years of his life to teaching in
La Junta, from 1971 to 1998. Throughout his career he taught social studies,
history, and photography. Many will remember him as a fun and outgoing teacher
who possessed a remarkable sense of humor and a willingness to help others.
A
proud service member, Jake served in the United States Army at the
onset of the Vietnam War, where he honed his skills as a photo lab
technician. This experience sparked his lifelong passion for
photography, which became a significant part of his identity, and would
often be seen with a camera around his neck.
A
well-known presence in his community, Jake was actively involved in the
Rocky Ford American Legion Post #8 for 22 years, where he held various
roles, including photographer, historian, adjutant to the commander, and
member of the rifle team.
Jake
took pride in his accomplishments, receiving the 2019 Sunshine Award in
La Junta and serving as president of the Swink Senior Center. His
interests extended beyond teaching, as he was an avid fan of the Denver
Broncos and the Colorado Rockies. He enjoyed attending the local
school’s sporting events often and loved collecting diecast cars,
proudly displaying them at various functions around the valley.
Jake
is survived by his children, Evette Frentress of Rocky Ford, CO; &
Janelle (Adam) Jessee of Jacksonville, IL; grandchildren, Courtney
(Ofelia) Martinez; Sean Martinez; Heather (Joseph) Wilkey; Sierra
(Zachary) Isaacs; Senon Frentress; Erik Frentress; Trevor McElroy;
Declan, Maddox, & Keegan Jessee, Shayarah Zamora, and Kyra Zamora;
numerous loved great-grandchildren also survive as well as numerous
nieces & nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elias
& Antonia Martinez; son, Erik Martinez; grandson, Jeremy Zamora;
siblings, Vangie Miller, Ed Martinez & Lucille Martinez.
Jake
leaves behind a legacy of dedication to education, service, and
community involvement. He will be remembered for his vibrant personality
and the joy he brought into the lives of those around him. His
contributions to education and the community will continue to inspire
future generations.
Viewing
will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Peacock Memorial Chapel from
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be Monday,
January 5, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian Burial at
10:00 a.m. both services at Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick Parish
with Father Jay Gapayo officiating. Military honors will be rendered at
the church by Rocky Ford American Legion Post #8. Inurnment will take
place on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery in
La Junta.
The
family would like to thank the staff of Crowley County Nursing Center
and Bluestem Village for their great care, love and support.
Online
condolences may be made at www.PeacockFH.com. Peacock-Larsen Funeral
Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.