Frank C. Martinez passed away on Monday, January 18, 2010, at 93 years of age. He was born on January 8, 1917, in Superior, Arizona.Frank served in the United States Army during
World War II and attained the rank of Sergeant. On December 12, 1941, he married the love of his life, Inez (Palacio) Martinez. Frank eventually settled in Yuma where he was employed at Tanner Construction Company as a heavy equipment operator, retiring in 1979.Frank was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ in the Apostolic Assembly on April 19, 1942, and subsequently dedicated his life to serving the Lord. He will especially be remembered for his faithfulness and passion for serving the Lord and helping others. He gave his all for God, his family, and friends. He was a devoted husband and companion, loving father, and a tremendous grandfather who will truly be missed by all who knew him.Frank is survived by his wife of 68 years, Inez; his children, Dolores (Rudy) De La Vara, Rachel Leyva, Danny (Francis), Rebecca (Edward) Pacheco, Isaac (Tammy), Jacob (Eva), Gilbert, Diana Martinez, and Delilah Gastelum; 25 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; sisters, Estella Perales and Margaret Lopez; and brothers, Ernest, Jesse, Joe, and Henry.Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Ramon and Victoria Martinez; brothers, Ray and Ramon Jr.; sister, Carmen Chavez.Funeral services will be held at First Christian Church at 3261 S. Avenue 6E, Yuma, on Friday, January 29, 2010 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at Desert Lawn Memorial Park on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 10:00 a.m.Pallbearers will be Daniel Martinez Sr., Isaac Martinez, Jacob Martinez, Gilbert Martinez, Daniel Martinez Jr., and Gabriel Leyva.Honorary pallbearers are Dennis Padilla, Rudy De La Vara Jr., Gregory Leyva, Eric Martinez, Michael De La Vara, David A. Gastelum, Christopher De La Vara, and Angel M. Martinez.
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