Baton Rouge, LA - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rosario Martina. Rosie passed on June 9, 2025 at the age of 101. Rosie was a resident of Highland Road where he lived 98 years of his life on the property where he was born. He was known for his welcoming smile and friendly conversation. Rosie was a founding member of The St Vincent de Paul Dining Room where for 43 years he volunteered his time to make The Dining Room a success. He could be seen daily riding in his Blue Dodge Truck picking up loads of food for The Dining Room. Rosie believed that none of God's children should be hungry not even for one day. In 1998 The St Vincent de Paul Organization presented Rosie with their highest honor The Top Hat Award and inducted him into The St Vincent de Paul Hall of Fame located in Paris, France. He was a Veteran of WWII, serving in the Army 44th division, company F of the 324th infantry. Rosie was a Lifetime member of The Knights of Columbus Council 3298. In 2020 Rosie was the recipient of The Golden Deeds Award presented to him for his life long contributions made to the people of Baton Rouge.
Rosie is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 71 years Laura Cusimano Martina; his parents Joseph and Angelina Martina; his brother Joseph Martina Jr; his sisters Virginia Galbo and Martha Rayburn. Rosie is survived by his children Michael (wife Pat), Anthony (wife Alice), Rosie's daughter Patricia, Teresa (husband Gary); grandchildren: Matthew Martina, Dominic Maggio, Tristan Biede, Dixye Fontenot; great grandchildren: Sarah Biede, Tyler Biede, Alexandra and Brennon Fontenot, Toby and Aislin Berger; nieces: Barbara Gilblair, Joanne Bourgeois, Nancy Salemi, Teresa Raburn, Donna Loflin, Sandra Scott; nephews: L J Cusimano, Bernard Bellina, Mark and David Rayburn. Pallbearers: L J Cusimano, Bernard Bellina, Mathew Martina, Dominic Maggio, Paul Melancon, Jimmy Zito, Mark Hyatt. Honorary pallbearers: Phil Bruder, Steve Mumphrey, Gary Maggio, Russell Hebert, Daryl Hardwick, Keith Horcasitas, Brent Fontenot, Denise Spears, Denise Terrance, Helen McGawley, and all the Angels at St Vincent de Paul in Baton Rouge. Visitation will be held on June 18 from 10:00 till 1:00 at Rabenhorst Funeral Home 825 Goverment St in Baton Rouge. Mass will be officiated by Fr Cleo Milano at 2:00 at Our Lady of Mercy Church at 445 Marquette Ave. Burial will commence after Mass at Roselawn Memorial Park 4045 North St. Eulogy will be given by Michael Acaldo -CEO of St Vincent de Paul U.S.A.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Rosie's name to St Vincent de Paul P.O. Box 127 BR, LA 70821.
