Abelardo was born August 23, 1944 in Sabines, Mexico. He worked as a welder until his retirement. He had moved to Brownwood in June to be near his family.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his children, Alex Martinez Anderson of Brownwood, Abelardo Martinez, Jr. of Brady and Lalo Martinez of Mexico; brothers, Melin Martinez Orozco of Mexico and Abel Martinez Orozco of California; sisters, Berna, Elma and Lila Martinez Orozco, all of Mexico; grandchildren, Chasity Gomez, Kayla and Briana Anderson and Alyssa and Kirk Martinez. He also leaves behind a great grandchild, Myah Flores.

He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Adriana Martinez, brother, Sergio Martinez Orozco and sister, Velia Martinez Solis.