He retired as a foreman from Lone Star Cement Corp, where he worked for over 35 years in Houston. During his employment, he was recognized in the field of safety for his outstanding record of 1,931 consecutive days without a Lost Time Accident, indeed an example of his excellent work ethic and leadership.
Manuel returned to the country to live out his retirement days in Waller, TX. He had a passion for gardening, fishing, wood working and spending countless hours sharing stories about the good old days. He could talk to anyone and befriended many.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his younger brother Tiburcio Martinez, 3 sons: Daniel, Marcial, Paul and a daughter, Lydia Barrios.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Emma G. Martinez, 3 children: Manuel Martinez Jr. (wife Enedelia), Yolanda Vasquez (husband Ernest), Elaine M. Hernandez (husband JR), 14 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He loved his family well and to no end.
He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten by all who knew him as Manuel, Mr. Martinez, Dad, Suegro, Grampa, Pepaw, or The General.