Israel Martinez

Israel Martinez, 42, passed away June 17, 2024. He was born December 27, 1981 in San Antonio, Texas. Family was very important to Israel. He was one of two children but grew up surrounded by cousins who became like big brothers to him. There was nothing more that he enjoyed than spending time surrounded by his loved ones. Israel  was a devoted husband and father. Israel had many hobbies, he enjoyed golfing, flying kites, listening to music and playing his guitar. Israel would share his love of music with his children and would try to teach his son, Emeritt, how to play. Israel was able to travel with his family and loved seeing new places. They spent time in his favorite city, Las Vegas and also in Florida, New Mexico and Mexico. He loved taking his family on road trips, especially, to the beach.

Israel was a radiant light. You would always see a smile on his face and cracking a joke to make people laugh and smile. He would always try to keep the peace and his priority was that his family and people around him were having a good time. He always put his family first. Israel is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Catalina Balderas.

Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy is his beloved wife, Valerie Gonzales – Martinez; son, Emeritt Martinez; daughter, Brianna Martinez; his mother and step-father, Maria Georgina and Salvador Lara; and sister, Georgina (Bob) Olvera. He is also survived by his aunt, whom was like a second mother, Guadalupe Montoya; cousins, who were like his brothers, Richard (Felicia) Montoya, Jacob (Crystal) Montoya and George (Nereida) Montoya; numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family and close friends.