Rudy Martinez

 Rudy passed away Tuesday, July 4, 2023, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 87. He is preceded in death by his father, Ascencio R. Martinez, his mother, Concepcion R Martinez (Conchita) and his brother, Eliseo L. Martinez (Cheo). Rudy was born on June 24, 1936, in San Diego, Texas where he enjoyed his early formative years. Family and friends in San Diego provided a safe and nurturing environment. In addition, the teachers in San Diego helped spark and guide his love of learning. He excelled in school,
graduating in 3 years from Texas A&I University, with a degree in Biology. He worked for Texas Parks and Wildlife in Corpus Christi as a Marine Biologist for over 20 years. In 1955 he married his high school love, Sandra Ann Richard. They were married for 12 years and had three children, Rae Ann Martinez McCanse (Bill), Michael Martinez and Monica Martinez Mulkey(Paul). He and Sandra
remained good friends throughout the years and set a loving example for their children and grandchildren.

Rudy was a devoted son and nephew. He took care of his mother and Aunt (Tia Maria) in their later years until their passing. He did the “Texas three-step” often, driving them from San Diego to the ranch in Falcon to visit with family, to Corpus for doctor appointments and HEB runs, then back to San Diego. Yet, by no means was Rudy only a chauffeur, he could fix ANYTHING with duct tape, string, and a piece of wire. Many days he could be found tinkering with machines, bicycles, or anything else that was broken. Rudy also had a deep connection with nature and the ranch. The cattle, the ranch, watching the sun set over the mountains in Mexico all resonated with his being.

In 1974 he met Margaret B. Garcia, tasted her menudo and the rest is history. They shared 43 years together making happy memories.  Besides traveling, they enjoyed many common interests. Both had a keen love of books, music, the ranch, and back porch time. Rudy also had a special bond with Margaret’s daughter Seline and granddaughter Eva, a bond that lasted until the day he passed. He will always be Eva’s “Grandma Rudy.” Rudy began a new chapter at the age of 80 after Margaret’s passing. He brought his gentle, mourning soul to Houston, his new home. In time he healed, thrived, and charmed his way into each neighbor’s heart. Until his very last day he was cared for by all and loved dearly.

Rudy is survived by his 7 grandchildren, Cole Wiseman (Dayna), Jammar Wiseman (Jen), Rikki Ann Vasko (Scott), Paul Joseph Mulkey (Alli), Michael Rayburn Mulkey (Alicia), Heather VanKregten Carse
(Jake) and Amanda VanKregten, as well as 11 great grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter and his dear first cousins, Sonny Ramirez, and Anita Medina.

As long as Rudy had his music, a flashlight, a compass, a pocketknife, and a cold beer, life was Good.

A Rosary will be held on Saturday, Oct 7, 2023 at 9:00 am @St. Francis de Paula Catholic Church followed by a Memorial Mass at @10:00am officiated by Father James Kariuki. Burial will follow at San Diego Cemetery. 

Mauro P. Garcia Funeral Homes Inc. entrusted with arrangements.