Leopold Paul Martinez

Leopold Paul Ortiz Martinez age 89, passed away Friday, March 25 2011. Memorial Services will begin at 10:00am, Thursday, April 7th 2011 at St. Philip Benzini Catholic Church, Fullerton, California. Paul grew up in Fullerton, California and played football for Fullerton High School back when they wore leather helmets. His love for football didn't stop there he coached Pop Warner and served on the Fullerton Pop Warner board. Paul met Rose the love of his life in a ball room where they shared their first dance. Paul said a suitor tried to cut in on their dance and he told the suitor no this is my fiance. They were married 66 years! Paul enlisted in the Army on 08-11-1942 and received an honorable discharge on 10-03-1945. His ranking was a Tech Sergeant in the 438 Combat Signal BN in World War II. Serving in England, France and Germany he was attached to the third infantry in the Battle of the Bulge, with the privilege to seeing General Patton and helped in freeing Interment Camps. Some of his recognitions included two Purple Hearts and five Battle Stars. Paul was a retired carpenter for the City of Fullerton, where he was able to use his creative and natural artistic abilities. His most enjoyable times were to take his kids to football games, playing golf, travel, sing and family gatherings. Paul passed away in the Long Beach Veterans Hospital with his family by his side. The veterans say that when you die at the VA Hospital you return to be with your brotherhood that died before you. Pauls wife Rose and their son Maurice Martinez proceeded in death. Survived by his four children, daughter Jessie (Tom) Reyes, daughter in law (Carolyn) Martinez, son James Martinez, daughter Anita (Steve) Gustavus, daughter Toni (Tim) Kistler, 15 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. They were the apple of his eye. He often bragged about his five generations of children. Paul was a true leader with a charismatic presence, he taught his children to pray and work hard for what they wanted. He will be missed but will forever live on in the hearts of his children. We love you Dad and look forward to seeing you again in heaven.