Jose G. Martinez

Jose Guadalupe Martinez, 61, of Port Clinton, died Thursday November 28, 2008 at the Toledo Hospital surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer. He was born September 8, 1947 in Brownsville, Tx, the son of Ildifonso and Felicidad (Esparza) Martinez. He enlisted in the US Army at the age of 18 and served his country proudly in the Vietnam War during which he was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart. He married Ernestina (Marquez) on June 8, 1968. The young couple settled in Port Clinton after their marriage and raised five sons: Jose A. (Peggy) of Toledo, Robert of Toledo, Daniel of Fremont, Chris (Michele) of Toledo and Steven of Bowling Green. He is also survived by his brother Ildifonso Martinez and sister Maria de la Luz Vasquez both of Fresno, CA. as well as several nieces and nephews. Jose was a pee-wee football coach for Immaculate Conception elementary school in the 1970's and coached his sons in the 1980's for Jefferson Elementary school. Jose retired from the US Army after 25 years of service, C.S.M.S. #2 Camp Perry and the Ohio National Guard. A devoted husband for 40 years, and a loving father, Grandpa Jose held a special bond with all of his seven grandchildren. Jose was most proud of his five sons and his seven grandchildren. Friends may meet the family from 10 am Tuesday December 2 at the Neidecker, LeVeck & Crosser Funeral Home, Port Clinton followed by a celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am Tuesday at the Immaculate Conception Church, Port Clinton. The Rev. John Missler will officiate. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society. Funeral Home: Neidecker-LeVeck & Crosser Funeral Home - Port Clinton Chapel 1124 Fulton Street Port Clinton, OH