In memory of

Vivian L. (Viv) Martinez, age 65 of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

November 24, 1957 – December 9, 2022

On the morning of December 9, 2022, Vivian passed away unexpectedly and peacefully in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  She was born in the town of Walsenburg in Huerfano County on November 24, 1957 to James Santiago “Jim” Barela and Martha (Romero) Barela.  She was the second born of six children.

Vivian was a wonderful loving mother who always displayed her loving and pure heart.  She walked a path where she chose to break out of the mold, following her freedom and did her best to show others this way.  She was a selfless woman who chose to put the needs of others before her own, especially when she felt it was an unspoken need. The simple act of bringing a smile to another’s face and showing they were loved always made her heart feel so full.

Vivian loved music, animals, the outdoors, relaxing in the sun and listening to the waves of the water with her fishing pole in hand trying to catch the next big one.  The outdoors brought her so much peace and joy.  She had a very creative eye and saw so much wonder in the world around her which led to her love of carving these expressions in the wood she would find while on her outdoor adventures.

Vivian had an incredible interest for the magical things in life and saw the world beyond our physical senses. Sharing this magic and truth with those closest to her brought her so much fulfillment and flowing abundance.

Vivian’s presence on earth will be remembered in the hearts of many.  

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law’s Mike “Hoss” Ross and Greg Adkins.  She is survived by her five siblings:  Donna Rodriguez, Susan Aguirre (Max), Sonny Barela, Penny Adkins, and Doug (Danette) Barela; Her children: Victoria (Vincent) Gomez, Vanessa (Brian) Harris, and Valerie Barela; Grandchildren: Andrew (Shaylee) Martinez, Isaiah (Cameran) Garcia, Martin Mascarenas, Tristan Blandford, Elijah (Sha’Wana) Garcia, Kira Blandford and Ellie Harris; as well as her eight great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Alternative Cremation, 2377 North Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 on January 7th at 11 am.  A balloon release will follow shortly after the reception, across the street at Palmer Park.