Fiestas De Las Vegas Business Heritage Honorees: Mr and Mrs. Matias Jr. and Connie Martinez
- asalas843
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
Matias Jr. and Connie Martinez began their entrepreneurial journey in the early 1960s with the founding of Martinez & Sons Oil Co. Their ambition and work ethic quickly led to expansion, and by 1968, they had added a propane business to their growing enterprise.
Their first operation was established in Las Vegas, New Mexico, followed by an expansion to Pecos in 1971. In 1977, they acquired an existing propane company in Santa Rosa, and by 1983, they had launched a fourth location in Santa Fe. Their final propane operation opened in Mora in 1988, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth.
Over the years, the Martinez family's business interests diversified well beyond oil and propane. They added a laundromat, a tire store, convenience stores, and rental properties. With the support of their children, new ventures were launched, including the Las Vegas Civic Center, developed with their daughter Cynthia. Their son Marvin and his wife Mary Edna established the Las Vegas NAPA Store and the Pecos NAPA Store. Meanwhile, Matt and his wife Martha managed Thunderbird Petroleum, which later became Sangre de Cristo Broadcasting Company, home to five radio stations.
Through the continued growth of Martinez Gas Company, the family expanded their operations to include a tank manufacturing business and a multi-state transportation company.
With more than 50 years in business, Matias Jr. and Connie Martinez have employed hundreds of people and served more than 10,000 clients across New Mexico and beyond. Though now retired, they remain actively involved as trusted advisors to their family, offering guidance in both business and life.
Their family legacy continues with their daughter Frances, a surgical nurse specializing in cardiac care and medical devices. Matias Jr. and Connie are proud grandparents to eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
The City of Las Vegas extends its deepest gratitude to the Martinez family for their decades of commitment to local enterprise. Their dedication, leadership, and continued investment have been a cornerstone of our small business community. We honor their legacy and thank them for helping make Las Vegas stronger.
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