Obituaries

Enrique Martinez, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at home on October 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 15, 1926 in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, to Patricio and Silviana (Castillo) Martinez.

Enrique came to the United States at the young age of 14, he started his journey in Pharr, Texas. Years later after relocating to Toledo, Ohio he met the love of his life, Olga Hernandez, with whom he shared 70 wonderful years of marriage. A skilled cement mason, he dedicated many years to the construction industry, leaving a lasting legacy in the city of Toledo through his talent of mason work.

Enrique was immensely proud of becoming an American citizen and embraced his new home with open arms. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including attending horse races at Raceway Park, spending time in various city parks and tending to his beloved garden. His passion for nature was matched only by his love for his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren who brought him immeasurable happiness. He cherished his daily breakfasts of cornflakes, croissant and coffee. Followed by many vanilla ice cream cones. Traditional Mexican dishes like nopales and beans were some of his favorites.

A natural teacher, Enrique loved helping his family with home repairs and sharing his love of Mexican music with his grandchildren. His stories, wisdom, and warm presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Enrique is survived by his devoted wife, Olga; his children, Carmen, daughter -in – law Pansy Hernandez Henry (Chris), Alice, Daniel, Sylvia, Vincent, and Christine; 23 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, many siblings, his son David Hernandez, and three great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Walker Funeral Home - Oregon Chapel, 3500 Navarre Ave., Oregon, Ohio 43616. A funeral service will take place at 10:30 AM on Saturday, November 2, 2024, in the funeral chapel, with interment to follow at Lake Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in care of the family. Enrique's legacy of love and kindness will forever be cherished by his family and friends, both here and in Mexico.