Champ Melax Martinez

"A Child of God, forever in our hearts"

With broken hearts and unwavering faith, we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend, Champ Melax Martinez, who entered eternal rest on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the age of 13.

Champ was born on March 23, 2012, in Ogden, Utah, and was a true gift from God from the moment he arrived. He was a Child of God with a radiant spirit, a deep sense of faith, and a love for Jesus that touched everyone who knew him. A proud practicing Catholic, Champ was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where he received the holy sacraments of baptism and first communion.

Champ was full of light - kind, smart, creative, loving, and always uplifting others. He was a loyal friend to all, known for his infectious smile, great sense of humor, and joyful heart. Whether he was making his family laugh with crazy Tik Tok videos, playing sports, or teaching his friends about Jesus, Champ lived each moment with love and purpose.

He was a passionate fan of Fortnite - one of the best around - and loved playing basketball, golf, football, and spending time fishing and camping. He rode his bike and scooters with energy and freedom, jumped on the trampoline, and loved talking and laughing with his friends. He was a devoted fan of the Denver Broncos, Utah Jazz, and Seattle Mariners, and an avid fan of anime, especially Dragon Ball and Invincible.

Champ had a huge heart for animals, especially raccoons and orangutans, which he thought were hilarious and awesome in their own weird little way. He loved watching funny animal videos and had a soft spot for any creature that looked a little wild and goofy - much like his sense of humor. If it was strange, fluffy, or mischievous-looking, Champ probably loved it and would've made you laugh about it too.

Champ was deeply close to his family- especially his brother Jalen Martinez and his sister Kayla Emma Martinez-and shared a powerful bond with his mom and dad. He was his dad's best friend, a constant light who could brighten any day. To his mom, he was a blessing beyond measure - the joy and heartbeat of her world.

He is survived by his loving parents, Orlando and Lori Martinez; his brother, Jalen Martinez, and his sister, Kayla Emma Martinez. He is also survived by his grandparents: Abe Martinez, Carolina Bravo, Allan and Becky Ormond, and Marcella and Andy Esquivel; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will carry his memory forward with love and pride.

Champ is preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Emma and Melax Martinez, Ofelia Bravo; Ida and Rueben Martinez, his uncles; Michael Martinez, Tommy Martinez, and Mark Martinez; and his beloved aunts Helen, Patsy, and Becky Esquivel.

Champ brought indescribable joy to his family and to all who knew him. His soul was beautiful, bright, and deeply faithful - a teacher, a friend, a protector, and a blessing to us all. His faith was unwavering, and he lived it out loud - showing others what it means to love Jesus, be kind, and be proud of who you are in Christ.

"So with you: now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."

– John 16:22

Though our hearts ache, we believe in that promise. We will see Champ again. And when we do, our joy will be whole again - and eternal.

Champ, we know you are in Heaven with Jesus, watching over us with that same big smile we loved so much. We miss you beyond what words can say, but we find comfort in knowing we will all be reunited in the Kingdom of Heaven. Until then, we will carry your light in our hearts. We love you forever.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday July 31, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 210 Chapel Street, Layton, Utah. Friends may visit family Wednesday July 30 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah. A vigil with Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Interment will be held at the Clinton City Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a luncheon at St. Rose of Lima immediately following the burial to continue sharing memories and love in Champ's honor.