Frank Martinez

Frank Martinez, 94, was joyfully received into the Lord’s Arms on April 12, 2025, at home with his lovely wife and earth angel, Bernice. He was affectionately known as “Frank, the barber or Panch.”

Frank was born in southern Colorado in November 1930 to parents, José Simón and Eloisa Martinez. Frank graduated from Monte Vista High School in 1953. Before graduating Frank signed up with the Army National Guard to serve during the Korean conflict. He returned to graduate in his hometown with his brother Rudy and met his first wife, Charlotte Manzanares. They were married in February 1954.  Frank enrolled and graduated from Denver Barber College, began his successful barbering business in Fort Lupton becoming the first Hispanic business owner in that community. Frank was the personal barber to Colorado Governor John A. Love in the mid 60’s. Many, many loyal customers received ‘their first or best hair cut’ from him. Forever known as “Frank, the barber.”  Frank moved from Fort Lupton back to Monte Vista and met his lovely soulmate, Bernice Romero.  They were married in May of 1992.  Together they enjoyed 32 years of traveling, Rockies Games, going to yard sales, and frequent trips to the beautiful San Luis Valley.

Frank was very active in the community. He was the baseball manager of the semi-pro baseball team, the Ft. Lupton Hawks in the Rock Mountain Baseball League. He was a member of the American G.I. Forum, Lion’s Club, Rotary International, and Monte Vista Quarterback Club. He was a member of the United Methodist Church and Riverside Baptist Church.

Frank was an avid golfer and runner when he wasn’t playing or coaching baseball. He was an original season ticket holder from the Denver Broncos for many years. He grew up as a loyal NY Yankees fan until April 4, 1993, Opening Day for his Colorado Rockies. He considered “Opening Day” a holiday, attended festivities and has a collection of pins to prove his attendance. He loved every sport and enjoyed all the wild wonderful conversations with whomever was sitting in his barber chair.

Frank is survived by his wife Bernice, three children Carey (Eddie) Sanchez, Marty Martinez, George Martinez, three grandsons Tomás Sanchez, Esteban (Angel) Sanchez, Paul Seve Martinez, two great-children Vanessa Sanchez, Vincent Sanchez, sister Juanita (Sandoval) Martinez (Jay Conley), brother-in-law Steve (Toni) Romero, Godson Jeremy Sandoval, (fmr.) daughter-in-law, Cary Blalock, numerous nephews and nieces, friends, loyal customers, and constant furry companions Cinco and Blanca.

Frank was preceded death by his grandson Rico Nicholas Sanchez, 4 brothers Isaac Martinez, Alfred “Tito” Martinez, Andy Martinez, Rudy Martinez, parents José and Eloisa Martinez, and ex-wife Charlotte Martinez Belless.

Celebration of Frank’s Life service will be held at the Fort Lupton United Methodist Church, 306 Park Avenue, Fort Lupton, Colorado on April 21, 2025, at 11:00 am with luncheon reception to follow.  In honor of Frank’s love of sports, feel free to wear your favorite sports jersey, sport attire, or your favorite color. He will be smiling from heaven to see all the teams represented.

The burial will be held on April 22, 2025, at Fort Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W. Kenyon Avenue, Denver, CO 80236, at 11:15 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dignity Hospice, 400 E. 84th Avenue W-202, Thornton, CO 80229.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank Martinez, please visit our floral store.