1924-2018
Dad, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home on August 27, 2018 with his family by his bedside. He was born in San Bernardino and then later moved to Rialto and was a long time resident there. He served in the Unites States Army from 1943 to 1945. He was a sergeant in the 390th Anti Aircraft Artillery, a squad leader, sharp shooter with rifle M1. He served in Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. He received the American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
After returning home from the service he started working for Santa Fe Railroad in February 19, 1946. A few months later he married Olga J. Martinez on October 20, 1946. During his working years he became a machinist and worked on all different types of train engines even the Locomotive that was on display near Mt. Vernon Bridge and 2nd Street by the San Bernardino Depot. He worked for 39 years and retired on June 14, 1985.
He is survived by four children; son, Leonard A. Martinez Jr., and Kitty Martinez of Rialto, Cindy and Danny Esparza of San Bernardino, Sandy Valdivia and Olga Martinez both from Rialto, six grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Olga J. Martinez which passed away on January 12, 1998. They were married 52 years. Also preceded by his parents Antonio and Jacinta Martinez.
A visitation and rosary will take place on Tuesday, September 25, 2018 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. The service will be at 11:00 am to 11:30 am at Montecito Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3520 E. Washington Street, Colton, California. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery, 1540 Alessandro Road, Redlands, California.
