George E Martinez

George E. Martinez, born July 1, 1930, devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 5th, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his first wife of 38 years, Joanne(Graham) and survived by his wife of 26 years, Marion (Harlowe). Cherished father of Stuart (Kristin) and Chadlynne, stepfather to Frank Albus (Orna) and Adrian Albus (Julia); Grandfather to Stuart (Tania), Emily, Joy, Jo, Madeleine, Amelia and Baker; Great grandfather to Baby Martinez and Baby Albus; Devoted brother to William Martinez and sister, Jane Sheridan, along with many nieces and nephews and his faithful dog, Murphy.

George was born to the late Leslie and Marie Evans Martinez in Springfield, MA. and spent his childhood in Suffield, CT, where he enjoyed hunting, fishing and working in the Martinez Store. He was a proud graduate of Suffield Academy, served his country in the Navy during the Korean War and then went on to graduate from American International College, Springfield, MA. He worked for many years at Monarch Life Insurance, having achieved the position of Vice President for Investment at Monarch Capital Corporation.

A world-class fisherman, George fished all over the world, but felt a strong attachment to Newfoundland and Labrador. He appreciated the culture of the Innuits and swapped stories with them that he loved sharing when he returned home. Whether fishing for arctic char, Atlantic salmon or brook trout, he was often accompanied by his son and grandson…a fishing family indeed! He built custom rods and anyone receiving one cherished the quality, but especially the sentiment. He absorbed the tranquility of the wilderness and had a deep respect for nature insisting on “catch and release”. Twice a year, George, his son and grandson, would travel to Tim Pond Camps, Eustis, ME. These fishing trips were greatly anticipated and weeks in the planning.

He loved his Clinton home and cherished his family. George was very proud of the achievements of his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews and never hesitated to let them know how proud he felt. A warm, sensitive man, he always saw the good in people. George lived life to the fullest, quick to laugh and find the humor in life. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

A private Celebration of Life service will be held at the Second Baptist Church, Suffield, CT, at the convenience of the family. The family would appreciate the donation of blood to the American Red Cross in light of the worse blood shortage in a decade.