Joe T. Martinez was called to the home of his heavenly father on November 13, 2018, in Phoenix, AZ, at the age of 97.  He was born in Port Arthur on September 3, 1921.

Joe had a wonderful spirit; full of love and life. He had a passion for family, baseball, church, and dancing with his lovely wife, Catherine. He served in the US Air Force during WWII and was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. Joe met and married Catherine Ayala in 1942. After the war, Joe returned to PA, and spent his entire career working for Texaco Oil Refinery. Joe and Catherine raised their 6 children in Port Arthur and were members of St. Catherine’s Catholic Church. He was an excellent athlete, and baseball player.  Joe was also a talented carpenter and brick layer, building his house with his own hands.  On weekends his favorite pastime was dancing with Catherine, and entertaining with friends.  He also loved to do service for others and spent his spare time helping family and friends, building patios, bbqs, or serving at the Church. Among his greatest gifts was his spirit and mental strength; he never quit.  We miss him dearly and are grateful to him for always being there for us.

Joe is preceded in death by his wife, Catherine, and sons Raymond and David. He is survived by son Joseph K. (& Mary) Martinez of Houston TX, daughters, Linda (& Robert) Fardig of Sun City AZ, Norma (& Leonard) Tapia of Santa Fe NM, and Cathleen (& Michael) Edger of Phoenix AZ.  He has 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Memorial Mass will be held at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Port Arthur, TX on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 10am. Internment to follow at Calvary Cemetery.