Martin P. Payan's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Martin Perez Payan
Martin Perez Payan, born on Veterans Day, November 11, 1946. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, padrino, veteran, mentor, and friend, passed away on a beautiful starry night, Monday, March 2, 2026 at Jennifer Moreno Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, California.
Martin’s passing left behind a legacy defined by service, compassion, humor, and unwavering love for his family and community.
Born in a casita de adobo in Nuevo Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico. The eldest of ten children born to Francisca Payan (Perez) of Chihuahua, Mexico and Jesus Franco Payan of Lordsburg, New Mexico, USA. From an early age Martin carried the quiet strength and responsibility that often comes with being the oldest, helping guide and support those who came after him. As a teenager, he journeyed to the United States in search of opportunity, building a life defined by hard work, resilience, and determination.
Martin proudly served his adopted country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War—an honor he carried with deep pride throughout his life. His service reflected the courage, loyalty, and commitment that would define the man he became.
He worked and retired from NASSCO. A skilled and dedicated professional, earning many certifications such as an auto mechanic, long-haul driver, counselor, maintenance, and upon retirement focused solely on holistic healing and massage therapy. Yet the work that meant the most to him was the work he did for others. Martin was deeply involved in the Alcoholics Anonymous community, where he devoted countless hours helping people find hope and healing. His compassion led him to volunteer regularly in county jails, homeless shelters and rehabilitation centers, where he shared his story and reminded others that redemption and new beginnings were always possible.
Martin had a rare gift for storytelling. With quick wit, perfectly timed humor, and a sparkle in his eye, he could captivate a room with stories that made people laugh, reflect, and feel connected. Whether among family, friends, or strangers, he had a way of making people feel seen and welcomed.
He was known by many as a selfless and giving man—someone who would stop whatever he was doing to lend a helping hand. To Martin, no person was a stranger for long. His generosity of spirit and willingness to serve others left an indelible mark on the lives of countless people.
Above all else, Martin loved his family deeply. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Patricia “Paty” Ruesga, children Diana, Martin, and Mireya, whom he shared with his former wife Elizabeth Ruiz, stepchildren Laura, Bruno, and Diego, whom he embraced with love. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, who will carry his memory forward and nine siblings, Alicia, Jesus, Ruben, Bertha, Margarita, Luisa, Rene, Norma, and Javier.
Martin’s life was one of courage, laughter, redemption, and generosity. He taught those around him the power of resilience, the value of service to others, and the importance of living with heart and humor.
Though he is no longer with us, the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the love he gave will continue to echo through the many hearts he changed forever.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.
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