JOSE MARTINEZ

Jose Martinez, born February 1, 1936 in Ballinger, Texas, ended his battle with Lung Cancer early Monday morning, May 17, 2010. Mr. Martinez worked for the Texas Highway Department in Ballinger for 10 years prior to moving his family to San Angelo, Texas in 1965. He was married to his childhood sweetheart, Mante Cortez Martinez for 53 years. Jose worked at various businesses before starting his career with Sears Roebuck & Co. where he began as a delivery truck driver and retired as a successful salesman after 25 years of service. After a short retirement, Joe went to work for Lacks Furniture Store for five more years. Joe Martinez was a very caring and loving man and a good friend to those who touched his life. He was devoted to his parish, St. Mary's Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and Usher. His love and enjoyment for helping young children led him to pursue a vocation as a Crossing Guard for the City of San Angelo, Texas where he continued to serve until he was diagnosed with Lung Cancer in late October, 2009. Joe also enjoyed dancing, photography, and golf. Jose Martinez is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mante Martinez; son, Joe Martinez, Jr. of San Angelo, Texas; daughter Sharon Martinez Zertuche of Santa Barbara, Ca; and daughter, Jill Renee Martinez of Dallas, Texas; and one grand-daughter, Jasmine Martinez. Jose also leaves behind a loving sister, Irma Mata of Ballinger, Texas and loving Aunt, Flora Reyes of Ft. Worth, Texas, many loving nephews and nieces and one very special pet ShihTzu, ChaCha. He is preceded in death by his mother, Theresa Martinez; brother, Noe Martinez, aunt Ruth Martinez and several uncles. A Rosary will be at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Mass of the Resurrection will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 20, 2010 at St. Mary's Catholic Church with Father David Herrera officiating. Burial will follow Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Special Thanks from the family go to all who prayed and cared for their loved one, Jose Martinez.