Deborah Lynn Martinez (Bergstrom)
August 10, 1953 – July 26, 2022
Heaven gained an angel, our beautiful Debbie, who blessed us with 68 years of her love, compassion, wit, and strength, and was called to rest and be free of the burdens of earthly life. Her health and body were restored and she was welcomed in heaven by loved ones who were called before her – her beloved son – Karl Bergstrom, her spouse – Andy Martinez and her parents – Luke and Bobbie Smith, her brother – Ross Smith.
Debbie was cherished by so many that were blessed to know and love her. She is survived by daughters, Amanda Romero and Holly Laughlin, and Sharon Shatraw.
Son-in-law, Ed Romero, and sister Rita (Ralph) Gutierrez. Her extended family, Martinez and Hedges family, and many more of whom she declared as her brothers and sisters.
Debbie was blessed with four grandchildren- Andres and Jeremiah “Goose” (Amanda and Ed) and Jessica and Lana (Holly). So very many more affectionately called her grams, granny, and grandma D. She was that easy to love and became that motherly/grandmotherly figure that you might have needed at that very time in your life.
Her nieces and nephews adored her, and she was affectionally called “Tia” by her beloved niece, Marie Gutierrez. To mention all of you by name would be almost impossible, but those of you that know – know how very special you were to her.
The numerous friends that she collected over the years are immeasurable. There are many that she joins in heaven and there are those that she left behind, who bless us with stories of times had with Deb. Debbie had numerous caregivers that dedicated themselves to her daily – we are forever grateful for your patience and kindness throughout the years.
Born to Luther and Bobbie Smith in 1953, Debbie was welcomed by her sister, Rita and eventually, Ross completed their home. Debbie grew up in Trinidad but eventually graduated from Coronado High School in 1971. She entered the United States Army and National Guard in 1974 when she began her passion for taking care of others by serving as a medical specialist and first aid attendant.
Her divine ability to care with compassion and love eventually lead her to fulfill her passion of nursing. Debbie returned to Trinidad and worked as a certified nurse assistant at Mount San Rafael Hospital as well as the Trinidad Nursing Home. She went above and beyond for the residents and often visited them on her days off to ensure that a little extra care was given where it was needed. She met Andy in 1978 and he fulfilled the duty of a spouse and was always by her side.
She became a mother to Karl in 1972 and Amanda Rose was born in 1982 to Debbie and Andy. She loved her children with all of her heart, they were her “Pride and Joy”. She was sure to always remind them with these words. Andy and Debbie’s house on Baca Street was always the place to be and their door was always open. She loved listening to music and dancing. There was always a fun barbeque or party, as she loved being surrounded by those that loved her.
In recent years, Deb’s health deteriorated, yet she fought to maintain her independence. She struggled physically but maintained her kindness through laughter and unconditional love. She had some of the greatest stories and we are blessed to have her in our lives and now as our angel in heaven.
To honor Debbie, service and celebration of life will take place on:
Monday, August 8, 2022, at 10 a.m.
At: Faith Christian Church – 2608 Santa Fe Trail
Graveside services are following at Masonic Cemetery.
