Pedro Martinez

PEDRO "PEDRITO" ANGEL MARTINEZ, peacefully entered his heavenly home in the presence of the Lord, on Monday, January 31, 2022 at the Hospice of Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio. Born on September 27, 1931 in Yauco, Puerto Rico, he led a beautiful 90 years of a life filled with love, compassion, and faith.

He is survived by his bride of 67 years, Carmen Martinez (Medina); son, Peter (Betsie) Martinez; five grandchildren, Manny (Amy) Martinez, Erica (Daniel) Skubovius, Josie Martinez, Josh (Kate) Martinez, Vince Martinez; and five great-grandchildren, Gabriel, Brayden, Hailey, Aurelia, and Lucas.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Pedro Martinez, Sara Martinez (Gonzalez); and son, George Martinez.

Pedrito or “Papito” as his grandchildren affectionately called him (and he would often call others) had a heart of gold, and his love for family ran deep. As the eldest of eight children he worked hard to help with his family’s farm, and was forced to leave school after only the 4th grade. To further assist the family financially, he left Puerto Rico at the age of 19 for a three year job at Cleveland Chain in Cleveland, Ohio. He returned to P.R. to marry the love of his life, Carmen, in 1954 and have their two sons, Peter & George. In 1959 he moved his family to Bronx, New York in search of a better life and more opportunity. He was a humble man of great character and a strong work ethic. Once in New York, he held the position of Houseman for 25 years at the Barbizon-Plaza Hotel and later as a Doorman/Elevator Operator at a private condominium building, retiring in 1997. In later years, he and his wife enjoyed traveling, visiting family and friends all over the country and beyond, including Ohio, California, Florida, and of course their beloved homeland, the isla of Puerto Rico.

Pedrito was a giant in his faith and a true man of God. He was extremely active in the Spanish Methodist church and held numerous posts, spending his time as a greeter, treasurer, usher, and Deacon. He also attended yearly church conferences. He was a man who walked the walk with Christ while on this Earth. It could be felt by the light he exuded through his soft spoken words and his genuine kindness to all.

On August 30, 2019, Pedrito and his wife, Carmen, were brought from New York to Ohio, where their son, Peter would be their caretaker. This was special to him, as he had fond memories of his time spent in Cleveland when he was a young man. He also felt blessed to spend the last of his days with his son.

Pedrito “Papito” will be remembered by his humor, charming laugh, and sweet disposition. He was a special person who touched the hearts of everyone he met. To know him was to love him. He was loved immensely and is missed dearly. May he always smile down on us while flying with the angels in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Pedro to Hospice of the Western Reserve at www.hospicewr.org.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 AM, Tuesday February 8, 2022 at the funeral home. Interment following at Woodvale Cemetery.

The family will receive friends (with masks and social distancing) MONDAY 5 - 7 PM at the A. RIPEPI & SONS FUNERAL HOME, 18149 BAGLEY ROAD, MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS (WEST OF I-71).