Armando (Mando) Martinez's Obituary
Racine - Armando Martinez passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center in Milwaukee.
Armando was born on April 28, 1947, to the late Benito E. and Angelita (nee Rangel) Martinez in San Antonio, Texas. On November 14, 1992, he was united in marriage to Esther (nee Avila) Martinez, and the two shared a loving and supportive bond for over three decades.
Mando worked for Andis Company from 1989 until his retirement in 2015, where he was known for his dedication and hard work. He was also an active member of Redeemer Parkside Church in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where he found strength and community in his faith.
A gifted musician, Mando developed a love for the guitar at the age of fourteen. Over the years, he was a member of several bands, including the local Racine band Ambicon, where he played for ten years. Music was a deep passion for Mando, and it was a source of joy for him throughout his life.
Mando loved spending time with his family and his beloved fur-babies. He had a special bond with his grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable happiness. In addition, he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan, and he enjoyed grilling and creating memories with those he loved.
Mando will be dearly missed by his wife: Esther; daughters: Gracie Avila and Tina (Rob Sr.) Ortiz; grandchildren: Armando, Mario, and Micheal McAllister, Marcelino McKinney, Analysa, Angelina, and Rob Jr. Ortiz; sisters: Angelita, Linda (Jose Jimenez), and Mary Jane Martinez; mother-in-law: Hortencia Avila; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends who loved him.
He was preceded in death by his father-in-law: Manuel Avila; sister: Sue Vela; brothers: Louis, Benito, Albert, and Tony Martinez; niece: Sandy Barroso; sisters-in-law: Dolores Fuentes and Frances Avila; brothers-in-law: Alfredo Fuentes, Ralph Martinez, and David Vela; and his best friend: Ralph Felix.
A visitation will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Wilson Funeral Home. A service celebrating Mando’s life will be held at Redeemer Parkside Church in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor David Graff officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Hospital and Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center for their compassionate care during Mando’s illness. A special thank you also goes to close family friend Santiago Coronado Jr. for his support during this difficult time.
Mando's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be missed, but his legacy of love, music, and devotion to family will never be forgotten.
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