D. Robert Martin

Demetrio Robert Martin, or "Bobby" as he was called by his family, was born in New York City in 1922. His parents, Lola and Demetrio, and two older sisters, Lola and Adele, had emigrated to America from Spain. His parents worked hard, raised a close-knit family and prospered. In 1943, Bobby entered the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY as shining a new cadet. He graduated from his studies in Marine Engineering in 1944, and served on various merchant ships until the end of World War II. His service in the US military was always a source of great pride to him and his parents. Upon discharge from the military, he began his career with the international division of Texaco and was assigned to Barranquilla, Colombia in 1947. Bobby made many friends and loved the excitement of living in Latin America. Soon he met his wife, Marlene Pedraza, a Colombian. They were married in 1948 and four daughters, Marlene, Loli, Linda and Nancy, followed in quick succession. Bobby loved Colombia, but in 1954, the political situation and fears for the safety of his family prompted him to return to New York. His fifth daughter, Gala, was born in New York. In 1962, Bobby began a new sales job covering Central and South America. He had many adventures in El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, and Ecuador. In 1963, his company transferred him to Mexico City. The family settled in Monterrey, Mexico in 1965 where he was to spend almost the next 40 years. Bobby was happy in Mexico because he was able to give his girls a wonderful bicultural education and numerous opportunities in life. To this day, his family is grateful for all his dedication and sacrifice. Bobby loved to cook, watch cartoons, see old movies, and being in the middle of the craziness that only six women living under the same roof could bring to his life. He lived his last years in San Antonio at Morningside Manor nursing home. He became ill with heart complications and passed away on Saturday, June 12, 2010. Bobby will always be remembered for his jolly disposition, sense of humor and exuberance. He was a devoted family man and will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Vitas Hospice Charitable Care 5930 Fredericksburg Rd. suite 200 San Antonio, TX 78229 877-800-2951 http://vitascharityfund.org/