Richard Arthur Martinez O.D. Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Richard Arthur Martinez, O.D., MPH. was born June 9, 1935, and went to rest May 19, 2022. Richard was a well known optometrist, former Pueblo County Commissioner, and member of the Colorado Parole Board, served on the Pueblo Health Department’s Board, taught for a semester at Pueblo Community College, and was a member of the Board of Optometrists where he served as a minority recruiter. Richard was known by many names; Doc, Ricardo, Richie… He was involved in many things, loved many with whom he worked and was loved by so, so many. Richard was raised in the San Luis Valley and at an early age moved to Pueblo with his family. He began his career as an orderly at the Colorado Mental Health Institute - Pueblo to help pay for his oldest brother’s education. He graduated from Adams State College (Alamosa) where he played college basketball. He went on to further his education in Southern California to become an optometrist. Richard opened his practice in Pueblo and married his wife, Mary. They worked together to grow his optometry practice starting out in Bessemer and eventually moving his office to Prairie Ave. He was honored to be selected as the optometrist to fit CF&I with safety glasses. Richard could not sit still; remembering his early career at the Colorado Mental Health Institute-Pueblo, he contracted with the institute as an eye doctor to examine patients. Richard always had an interest in politics. He supported local and state politicians, hosted Pueblo events for the Governor of Colorado as well as other political dignitaries and became a Pueblo County Commissioner. His most memorable role occurred when he was selected to meet and introduce former President Bill Clinton to a crowd of supporters in Pueblo. Richard did not let his busy schedule deter his need to keep moving and further his education. He was a proponent of education and earned a master's in public health attending Washington State University, Harvard and Johns Hopkins University. He enjoyed his time serving the county and eventually left to become a member of the Colorado State Parole Board before moving into a board member role for the Pueblo County Health Department. After practicing optometry for over 50 years in Pueblo, Richard semi-retired. He continued to work as an optometrist at ABBA Eye Care. He formed so many friendships from caring staff and patients. He also took on a quick role of instructing students at Pueblo Community College as part of an Adams State College extension course program. Richard is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Mary; and daughters, Michelle (Wayne), Sheila (Ray), Brenda and Debbie (Alison); grandchildren, Randy, Dalton, and Briana; two great-grandchildren, Noelle and DJ; sisters-in-law, Angie and Casey; sisters, Martha, Bernice, Irene; nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and their loving families; special family members, Don Trujillo, Oscar Hernandez, Patrick Trujillo and Peter Santistevan-Gettel; and many close friends in the community who were like family. The family would like to thank all the community members who supported Richard in his practice, in politics, and those who enjoyed his break-out of a guitar to sing in public. We would also like to thank the staff at Belmont Lodge for the extra compassion and attention provided to Richard and the family during his final care. He was larger than life, not one to shy away from a good tennis game, mind challenge, or drawing attention when ringing a cowbell at his daughter’s basketball game. Richard had a love for the city of Pueblo. In lieu of food and flowers, in Richard’s memory please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association, PAWS for Life, or the Boys/Girls Club of Pueblo. At his request, there will be no services. Online condolences can be made at roselawnpueblo.org

Richard Arthur Martinez O.D.

June 9, 1935 - May 19, 2022