Dodge City - Virgil Martinez, 63, died December 31, 2021 at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.  He was born on May 22, 1958 in Dodge City, the son of Manuel Q. and Josefina (Espinosa) Martinez.

Virgil spent his childhood in Dodge City.  He graduated from Dodge City High School.  After graduation, Virgil worked in construction and traveled.  He was an accomplished artist, working with metal to make sculptures.  Virgil was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and was always there to help out anyone in need.

Virgil is survived by two children, Marquetta Martinez of Shreveport, Louisiana and Michael Martinez of Springdale, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Amora, Aleigha, Avaya, and Alivia; one great grandson, Kash; five sisters, Genevieve Martinez, Vera Elizabeth Elliot, Marilyn Martinez, Angie Martinez (Levi), and Dio Martinez; one brother, Pangie Martinez (Mary); and many nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Hilario Martinez.

Memorial Mass will be held at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe,  Dodge City on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM. Inurnment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Dodge City.  Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Dodge City on Sunday, January 9, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM with the vigil service beginning at 7:00 PM.  Memorials are suggested to the family in care of the funeral home.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.