Martin Rael Jr., 79, a U.S.Army Veteran and resident of Silver City, NM entered eternal rest Thursday, July 31, 2025 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born May 28, 1946 in Magdelena, NM to Martin Rael Sr. and Precila Trujillo.
He served honorably in Vietnam for two years, ending his career with the rank of E-5 as a specialist. His military service shaped the strength and integrity he carried throughout his life. Martin began his education at Catholic school in Aragon and graduated from Reserve High School, where he was recognized for both academic excellence and athletic achievement. His education continued at St. Joseph's College, Northern Arizona University, and Western New Mexico University, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Business. He later completed a Master's in Banking at Southern Methodist University. Clorinda often said he was "the best husband on the planet." The two shared everything — from daily routines to worldwide travels.
Martin instilled in his children his most important values: honesty, fairness, hard work, and love without reservation. He never missed a moment — games, graduations, Grandparents' Days — he was always there. He celebrated every success and offered unwavering support. He loved hunting with his sons and brothers, and hiking in the Pelonas and Cross Mountain — where he once built a stone cross in honor of his ranching ancestors. A quiet day fishing at the lake brought him peace. He also enjoyed going out to cut wood, which he would bring home and share generously with friends and widows — a simple act of service that reflected his giving heart.
He is survived by his loving wife Mary Clorinda Rael of the family home; two sons, Bryan Rael (Melanie) of Tucson, AZ; Martin Rael III (Davie) of Chandler, AZ; one daughter, Maxine Rael-Begay of Las Cruces, NM; five grandchildren, Jayden Rael, Dace Begay, Jordan Rael, Brodie Rael, and Marley Rael, three brothers, Robert Rael of Silver City; Pablo Rael of T or C, NM; Eduardo Rael (Irene) of Albuquerque, NM; one sister, Linda Romero (Harry) of Reserve, NM; sister in-law, Genevieve Rael; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Daniel Rael; four sisters, Carmel Romero, Betty Flores, Lucy Fowler, and Lourdes "Vicki" Rael; sister in-law, Rosalie Rael.
The holy rosary will be held Wednesday, August 13th at 6pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with Deacon Bill Holguin reciting. The Memorial mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 14th at 11:30am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with Father Oliver Obele officiating. Concluding service, he will be laid to rest at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors.
Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
