Charles Martinez

Charles Martinez "Chuck Mo", 92, of Denver, Colorado, left his earthly home to join his beautiful wife Betty Ann of 58 years in their heavenly home on November 5, 2023. She's been waiting for him there for 15 years! He is survived by 4 sons, Charles (Sue), Urban (Laura), James (Anita), Jeffrey (Janine) and 3 daughters, Barbara, Gail, and Jody (Gary). He had 19 grandchildren but was sadly pre-deceased by one little angel grandson Urban Jr. He had 27 great grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren!

Charles was born to Genaro and Teresita Martinez on May 26th, 1931. He was only 16 when his mom died and he joined the Army shortly after that. Charles was one of 11 siblings and is survived by only one sister, Ramona. The family moved from New Mexico to the Denver area right around the time when Charles was born in 1931. He married his wife Betty on January 21st, 1951. They moved to California for work for a while but mostly resided in Denver and all 7 children were born in Denver.

Charles was a natural born leader and he wouldn't let anyone hold him down. Although at times they did try. He worked at a variety of jobs but landed his career job with the Parks and Recreation Department for the City of Denver. He held many positions there but his favorite was keeping the parks he was overseeing green, clean, and beautiful! The people in the neighborhoods loved him and often invited him to lunch or brought him refreshments.

Although he was a longshot for Mayor, Charles ran for Mayor in 1987. Mainly because he loved the city and he loved to see equity for all people. He felt that he could make some great changes for the city. He did make great strides in work equity putting himself in jeopardy, as the leader for change. But that was ok, he wasn't above sacrificing his own comfort when it came to trying to help the downtrodden. Many of his accomplishments went unnoticed, but those he helped knew it and he was loved for his good works and good heart.

But he wasn't always serious, on the contrary! Charles (Chuck Mo) was a character! He loved music and taught himself to play the piano, trumpet, and guitar. He had a beautiful singing voice and is known for belting out a song in public. He especially liked to sing impromptu at friends and family funerals! Even in his 90's. He was so much fun and was definitely in touch with his inner child! He loved dancing with his wife Betty and they did it so well. They also harmonized when they sang, like angels. He was such a faithful man and loved our Savior. His mantra was "the family that prays together, stays together". He taught his children to pray and to always rely on the Lord. So much more to tell, but that will have to wait for his Eulogy.