Chris Leonard MartzaChris Leonard Martza passed away unexpectedly at 10:15 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, at the age of 64 in Warsaw. He was formerly of New Mexico and a proud Native American and member of the Zuni Tribe.
He was born on March 4, 1957, in Zuni Pueblo, N.M., to Leonard Martza and Dora Jane Peynesta Massie.
Chris was a graduate of Zuni High School in Zuni, N.M., where at one time, he had worked as the custodian. He had worked for the state of New Mexico where he was a disciplined, soft-spoken and devoted wildland firefighter. He joined the smokejumper program and was also a lookout. Chris also worked as a ranger in Montana. He was a traveler and spent most of his life on the road, enjoying all that life had to offer and the many friends he has made along the way.
He played the guitar and enjoyed playing his harmonica. Chris moved to Warsaw in 2002. He battled his own struggles and was always friendly to new people he encountered on his journey. He interacted with many people while he was in Warsaw, and they cared a lot for his well-being and enjoyed sharing a meal with him. Chris made an impact on the many people he met, he was an inspiration to his family and to all that knew him ... he will be dearly missed.
He leaves behind his mother, Dora Jane Massie; father, Leonard Martza; daughter, Claire Martza; brothers: Danny Martza and Leander Othole; sister, Diana Othole; and many nieces and nephews, all of New Mexico. He was preceded in death by his long time love, his wife, Charlene Qualo.
Chris’ life will be celebrated by his friends and family in New Mexico, and he is finally at peace and will be laid to rest at Andrew Othole Cemetery in Zuni Pueblo, N.M. Arrangements were entrusted to Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.
