Leofredo Alfonso ""Fred"" Martinez

God made an angel on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at 9:45pm. Leofredo ""Fred"" Alfonso Martinez, born September 9, 1942 in Antonito, CO to Benito L. Martinez and Eva D. Mondragon. Fred was married 41 beautiful and blessed years to Linda J. Rangel. Married November 16, 1974 at Annunciation church in Denver, CO. Just 20 years old, Fred left his high school job at Goodrick Groceries and enlisted in the Army. He honorably served in Farmington, Minnesota. He'd earned Marksman (Rifle), Sharpshooter (Carbine), badges for Basic Missile and First Class Missileman and the Army Good Conduct Medal. Following his service, he worked as a mechanic and then finally Head of Security for Francis Heights/Clare Gardens. Officer Fred was loved by residents, employees and coworkers of Francis Heights, many called him family. He provided a warm, friendly smile, generous heart, easy going personality and protection to those around him. Fred worked two jobs for many years to provide for his family, tiresome as it was. He gave everything and more to his wife and two children including love, wisdom, strong sense of caution and preparedness skills and a real life hero. He often went on road trips with his son and daughter at work, to keep them company and spend time with them. He made friends with folks everywhere he went, called ""Bro"" by many. He would give the shirt of his back to make sure those who needed coats had them, those who had car troubles he'd repair the car or drive the individual where they needed to go, he provided an ear to listen, shoulder to cry, advice with care and was a father figure to many. His many loves included 50's music, collecting military medals and patches, fancying up his cars, attending the annual Indian Pow Wow, airshows, and car shows. In his younger days he was an avid tennis and racquetball player, bowler, Disco and ballroom dancer, and amazing on roller skates. After retirement he took on a new role as caregiver for his granddaughter. He accompanied his daughter to doctor appointments, grocery store and errand runs and visited daily to learn all about the baby's needs. When his daughter's maternity leave ended he took over 5 days a week (initially) and cared for the baby while she and her husband worked. They grew an immediate bond and became inseparable. ""Papo"" as she would lovingly call him, was born. For the next two years he'd spoil his baby with uninterrupted and unbounded love and attention. As she grew and experienced new things (swim, gymnastics, riding a train, going on a road trip, museums, family picnics and dinners) he was there for it all… seeing it through her eyes and making every adventure even grander for her. Survivors include wife Linda J. Martinez, son Jeremy A. Martinez (Kelly), daughter Mindy J.M. Albert (Mike), sweet dog Dunkers and his pride and joy, granddaughter Brielle E. Albert. He is also survived by family: Severo (Viola) Martinez, Benito C. Martinez, Jr, Andrew (Kim) Martinez, Mercedes Spellman, Carla Martinez, Tita Martinez, Terry Lennen, June (Lonnie) Sailas, Eleanor Rael, Kirk Hutchinson, Tausha (Eric) Little, Benito C. (Brandi) Martinez III, Olivia Martinez, Elizabeth Wagner, Drew Martinez, Loretta Sandoval, Marsha Runck, Michael Spellman, Keaner Spellman, Paul Spellman, Sean Spellman, Haven Richardson, and Tamara Juniel. Fred was preceded in death by family Benito L. Martinez, Eva D. Mondragon, Sol C. Montoya, Geraldine Martinez, Benito C. Martinez Sr, Leroy D. Martinez, Gerald D. Martinez. Theda Rangel, John Rangel, Louis Spellman, Joseph Spellman, Steven Spellman, and Clement Rael.