Ricardo Martinez

Ricardo Martinez, age 78, was born December 21, 1947, in Brownsville, TX, and passed away surrounded by his family at his home on September 29, 2026. A longtime resident of Houston, Texas, Ricardo will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who knew him.

Ricardo built a life marked by steady devotion and hard work, offering his time and strength with a quiet gentleness that made others feel cared for. He was a Master Electrician, and those who relied on him came to know not only his skill, but also his generous spirit—always willing to step in, lend a hand, and see a job through with pride and patience.

He also served his country as a United States Air Force Combat Engineer and was an Honored and Distinguished Veteran of the Vietnam War. His service reflected a steadfast sense of duty, and his legacy continues through family, including his grandson, who followed in his footsteps by joining the United States Air Force as a Firefighter.

Ricardo’s presence was unmistakable—often carried by a dry, sarcastic humor that could cut through tension and bring laughter, yet always grounded in warmth. His personality was inimitable and genuine. He had a gift for mastering any task or challenge, and in his family, a familiar truth was often repeated: “If Grandpa can’t fix it, no one can.” He found real joy in helping family and friends with projects and needs, giving of himself in ways both practical and heartfelt. In his free time, he enjoyed family gatherings, fishing, and casino outings.

He is preceded in death by his father, Alvaro Martinez; his mother, Altagracia Zarate Martinez; and sibling, Refugio “Cuco” Zarate Martinez.

Ricardo was a devoted husband to Linda Martinez for 56 years, and a proud father of three: Richard Jame Lee Martinez; Monica Renee Cantu and her husband Gerardo; and Samuel Anthony Martinez and his wife Amy. He is also a beloved grandfather to Alaura Ann Martinez, Alijah Anthony Martinez, Daniel Flores, and Gerardo Rene Cantu. He is further survived by his siblings: Mary Alta Cantu, Alvaro Martinez, Linda Salinas, Carmen Santos, Yvette Stuckey, and Sandy Foster.

Visitation will be held at The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478, on October 9, 2026, from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. A Catered Reception will take place at The Settegast Kopf Co at Sugar Creek, Event Center, 15015 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX, on October 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478, on October 9, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm.

Ricardo Martinez leaves behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, and steadfast love—strengthened by laughter, shaped by service, and carried forward by the family and friends who will continue to cherish him.