Israel Contreras Martinez

Israel Contreras Martinez, age 90, of Crosby, Texas passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. He was born in Waelder, Texas April 22,1934 to Guadalupe F. Martinez and Herminia Contreras (deceased 1935).

He is predeceased by his wife Anita A. Martinez and son Ramon A. Martinez.

He is survived by his children: Maria “Terry” Olvera (Frank), Estela Livingston (William), Elisia McCall, Herminia Garcia and David Martinez (Dorothy); 11 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren. Sister-in-law Alice Aguilar of Las Vegas, Nevada.

He was also predeceased by his siblings: Elias Martinez (childhood death), David Martinez, Elias “Leo” Martinez, Richard Martinez. Father Guadalupe, Stepmother Consuelo Garza Martinez and her children from a previous marriage; Herlinda Reyes, Alejandro Reyes, Guadalupe Reyes and Frances Reyes.

In 1951 he went to work for Western Union Telegraph. He began his career at Southern Pacific Railroad in May 1952; however, he was drafted in 1954 by the Army and served during the Korean War. He returned to Southern Pacific Railroad in 1956 after being Honorably Discharged. He remained with Southern Pacific Railroad until his retirement in May 1995.

His retirement years were full of projects around the house, traveling, gardening and being a loving husband, father and grandfather to his growing family. He was passionate about following the Astros, and Texans. His wife Anita introduced him to wade fishing, and he continued to enjoy fishing into his golden years; Teaching his grandchildren how to properly cast out and enjoy fishing was his gift to them. He also went deer hunting with his brothers. He took up golf after retirement and liked to play a few rounds into his 80’s.

He will be missed immensely by his family and friends.