John Lawrence Martinez Sr.

John Martinez Sr.

1934- 2024

John Lawrence Martinez Sr., age 89, passed from this life on March 6, 2024. He was born on August 19, 1934, in New York, New York, to the late Joe E and Esther M Martinez.

John is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Catherine Martinez, brother James Martinez, children; John Martinez (Ou), Cathy Goins (Sean) and Chrissy Kavanagh (David); his 5 grandchildren: Cameron and Tyler Goins (Cathy), Jack, Conor and Myla Kavanagh (Chrissy).

John was predeceased by his parents, above and his brother, Joseph Martinez.

John was a devoted husband, deeply loved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

John had fond memories of growing up in New York City. Playing stickball and working at the diner his parents owned. He attended Bronx Science high school, graduated in 1952. His family then moved to Tampa, Fl and shortly after John attended the University of Florida where he graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering in 1957. Before he could flourish in his career, John served our country in the US Army 1957-1959.

He met Catherine (Cimino) Martinez on a blind date set up by good friends. He thought she was so cute…. They endured long distance while John served in the military – but he never quit going after his true love. Rumor has it he proposed many times and FINALLY she said yes on Valentine’s Day 1960, and they married just a few months later on May 15, 1960, in Tampa, FL.

John and Catherine have 3 children John Lawrence Jr. 1965, Catherine Ann 1971, Christina Elizabeth 1979. John Sr. loved his children unconditionally and supported them throughout their life adventures and challenges. You could often find him taking the kids and grandkids out to play tennis, teaching them how to change oil, budget, make spreadsheets, dance, make sock puppets and just live life to the fullest.

John was a respected Chemical Engineer with many technical papers, 2 patents, Engineer of the Year in Central Florida 1987 and traveled the world for his many projects. After retirement he continued to consult for many years to come. He was a long-standing member and leader in the AICHE American Institute of Chemical Engineers. He also used his amazing organization, math, and science strengths to make many contributions to his community serving Nativity Church in Brandon, Fl as President and Chairman of the council and many years on the board at his retirement home in Sand Key, FL.

John loved to play and watch baseball, softball, tennis, and dancing. He managed and played softball in the Wise Guys over 60’s league in Tampa, FL and loved it! He played tennis until he could physically no longer do so and continued to light up the dance floor with his smile and moves everywhere he went.

John and Cathy had a devoted and unwavering love and respect for each other. They dined, they danced, shared family vacations, enjoyed their beach home and so much more over their 63 years together. John showed his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and wider community all how to lead with strength and love. He will be missed very much, yet the love, learnings, and strength he leaves behind are his greatest legacy.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

James Edward Martinez Endowed Pharmacy Scholarship (#246001)

https://giving.usf.edu/online/

A reception gathering for John will be held Sunday, March 24, from 12pm to 1pm, with a memorial service at 1 pm at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 2853 Sunset Point Rd., Clearwater, FL 33759. A committal service will occur from 2-2:30 pm.

Feel free to dress comfortably and colorfully for this celebration of life.