Manuel "Manny" Martinez

Manny was born in Redlands California to Santiago Martinez and Esiquia Diaz. His family moved to Glendale Arizona when he was a small child. Manny would call Glendale his home for the 90 + years to follow.

When Manny graduated from Glendale High School, he was drafted into the Army. Manny served in the Korean War and was a Bronze Star recipient. While in the Army, Manny passed through the Panama Canal and visited Tokyo. After returning home from Korea, he married his sweetheart Mary Jimenez and had 4 children. He attended ASU on the GI bill and graduated in 1963 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

Manny had a 36 year career with the Arizona Department of Economic Security. He first started working with farm laborers in the west valley. He rose through the ranks and finished his first career as Acting Director of the DES.

After retiring from the DES, Manny found his second and most rewarding career as a Councilmember and Vice Mayor for the city of Glendale. Manny was appointed to the council for 2 years after another Councilmember stepped down. His 2 years of service was recognized by his constituents and rewarded by being voted into office for 4 consecutive 4 year terms making a total of 18 years of public service to the citizens of the Cholla District of Glendale.

Manny spent many hours researching and studying issues brought before Council. He considered every side of all issues and voted for what he felt was best for the citizens of Glendale. Manny and his staff were instrumental in bringing the dream of the Coyotes, Cardinals and Westgate to fruition. He truly loved working for his constituents and with the city employees. He greatly appreciated the employees for their hard work and dedication.

Manny managed to find some time in his busy schedule to do some traveling. His favorite destination was San Francisco which he visited often with his wife Mary and family. The trip always included a fabulous meal at Scoma’s at Fisherman’s Wharf. He also visited Mexico, Germany, Switzerland, England, Italy and China. At the age of 81, Manny hiked the Great Wall of China with friends and his grandson Michael. While others were hesitant at the arduous task, he said he had come this far so may as well see it through.

Manny is preceeded in death by his mother, father and three younger brothers whom he loved very much, Eddie, Joe and Richard. Manny is survived by his loving wife of 69 years Mary and 4 children; Helen Mendez (Robert), Cecilia Jasso (Reynaldo), David Martinez (LuAnn) and Manuel Martinez Jr. (Sharon); 10 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren.

A rosary will be held at West Resthaven Funeral Home on Thursday, October 28 at 5:30 pm - 6450 W. Northern Avenue. Mass will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on Friday, October 29th at 10:30 am - 6280 W. Utopia. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Valley.

Dad, thank you for being the most loving husband and father. We miss you and will see you again.

GO SUN DEVILS!