Martin Salazar Quintanilla Sr.

Mercedes, TX - Martin S. Quintanilla 92 Passed away to be with our Lord on Saturday December 17, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family. Martin was born on August 3,1930, to Virginia Salazar Quintanilla and Martin Quintanilla in Mercedes, Texas.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, his son Martin Quintanilla Jr. Two brothers Ernesto Quintanilla and Rogelio Quintanilla , Two sisters Josefina Morales and Marylou Quintanilla.

He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years Maria Anzaldua Quintanilla and his children +Martin Quintanilla Jr. (Nora), Nellie Quintanilla (Enrique), Nancy Guerrero (+Javier), Joel Quintanilla (Sara) also 2 brothers Oscar Quintanilla and Armando Quintanilla. Also surviving are 22 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Martin attended Mercedes Independent School District and had to leave school in the eighth grade due to his father passing and had to get a job to help his mom raise his siblings. He attained a job at BD Holt Caterpillar Company as a janitor and worked in several positions during his tenure and after 42 years of service he retired from BD Holt Caterpillar Company as a General Manager.

Martin was drafted and served as a Private First Class with the U.S. Army at the age of 17, he served under 1st LT. Harold Blackwell, Commanding 2nd Armored Division. Martin proudly served his Country and did his tour of duty during the Korean War Conflict. Martin was a member of the Woodmen of the World Fraternity, Knights of Columbus and the American Legion Post 172.

Pall Bearers:Joel Quintanilla Sr., Joel Quintanilla Jr., Abel Ayala, Adrian Pena, Robert Gracia and Romo Sanchez.

In lieu of flowers please make your contributions to the American Legion Post 172 Mercedes, Texas