Joseph Andres Martinez

Joseph attended Thornton High School and participated in the Future Forward Program at Bollman, graduating with the Class of 2022. He later became an employee of Wayne’s Electric Company, where he was actively involved in their apprenticeship program while pursuing his dream of becoming a professional electrician.

JoJo was a humble young man with a heart full of love. He enjoyed playing basketball with friends, playing soccer, and spending time with family, with whom he shared incredibly close bonds. He was passionate about many things in life, including sports, traveling, working, attending church, and bringing joy to those, he loved most.

Some of Joseph’s happiest memories were made during summers and Christmases spent in Mexico surrounded by family. He loved gazing at the endless ocean, finding peace and comfort in its beauty. Fearless by nature, Joseph embraced adventure and never allowed fear to stand in the way of new experiences or opportunities. He lived life with an open heart and a courageous spirit. He also had a love for good food, especially seafood, and enjoyed treating himself to his favorite meals whenever he could. He possessed countless admirable qualities—he was loving, caring, gentle, hardworking, athletic, humble, and compassionate. Above all, he carried one of the biggest hearts anyone could ever know.

What truly set Joseph apart was his character. He never hesitated to help others and would go out of his way for anyone who needed him. He was protective and caring toward his younger cousins, while also being playful and fun loving with his older cousins. No matter who you were, Joseph had a way of making you feel valued, welcomed, and loved. Joseph found kindness in others, even when they did not always show it to him. He forgave easily and never held grudges. His faith guided him, and he understood that it was not his place to judge others. Instead, he chose compassion, understanding, and grace.

He will always be remembered for his bright, contagious smile—the kind that could instantly light up a room and brighten someone’s day. His laughter brought joy to those around him, and his voice was unique and it carried warmth and comfort. He faced life’s difficulties with remarkable strength, choosing happiness over anger and hope over bitterness. He always knew how to listen, how to comfort, and how to make people smile when they needed it most. His sense of humor was one of the many gifts he shared with the world.

Countless little details make Joseph unforgettable. He loved everything Disney, especially Lightning McQueen. He could watch the Cars movies repeatedly and knew nearly every line from the first film by heart. It was these unique little traits that made him who he was and brought so much joy to those around him.

Joseph was also talented and dedicated in everything he pursued. He continually demonstrated his skill, determination, and strong work ethic. He dreamed of one day becoming a professional electrician and eventually starting a company of his own. He had big dreams, and with his perseverance, there was little that could have stood in his way. Supported by the unwavering love of his family, Joseph was determined to build a bright future.

People loved Joseph simply because he was unapologetically himself. His authenticity, kindness, and warmth drew people to him wherever he went. He had a way of making everyone feel seen and welcomed with open arms.

Though Joseph’s time on earth was far too short, he accomplished so much in his 19 years. He left behind dreams still waiting to be fulfilled and memories that will be cherished forever. While he may no longer walk beside us, he will never leave our hearts. We will continue to find him in the things he loved, in the memories, we share, and in the love, he left behind.

Joseph was deeply loved, and his beautiful heart will never be forgotten. The love we have for him will never fade. He was a treasured nephew to Jaime and Helen Almanza; Yadira and Yoni Flores; Daisy and Jose Andrade; Judith and Francisco Escobar; Elaine Jose Edgar Contreras; David Castro; Juan Carlos Castro; Martin Jr., Ashley, Nayeli and Melissa González; Alberto, Jose Miguel, Jailene and Jacqueline Hernandez. Raul, Jessica, Melissa Ricardo, Omar Almanza- Bueno. Sarah, Nathan, Jacob, Rubin, Manuel and Oscar Martinez

Joseph was also a proud cousin to Aaliyah, Serena and Mila Almanza, Mia and Maxx Flores, Giannina and Luca Andrade, José Luis and Zoé Escobar, Joshua, Jacob and Sofía Contreras, Karla, Carlos, and Andrea Castro, Destiny and David Castro.

He was deeply loved by his grandparents, Andrea and Jaime Almanza, and Margarita Hernandez. Sherry Martinez, Joseph Barros. If love alone could have saved you, you would have lived forever.

We will carry you with us always, JoJo. We will love you, remember you, and hold you in our hearts until the day we meet again.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our JoJo.