Rosa Martinez's Obituary
Rosa (Rose) Martinez was born on January 20, 1928 in El Paso, Texas.
She spent some of her childhood following the crops with her family living in Los Angeles and Fresno, however, she did a lot of growing up in Biola, California. Rose was particularly close to her stepfather, and came from a large family of seven siblings. Rose had three brothers; Ramon, Carlos (Charlie) and George, as well as three sisters; Velia, Rachel and Sally. Rose was the oldest, but sadly, Velia and Charlie preceded her in death. Rose and her sister Velia were Raisin Day float attendees, and she graduated from Central High School in 1948.
Rose married Saul Martinez on September 30, 1951 in Fresno, and they were happily together for 37 years, until his death in 1988. They were both members of the the First Baptist Church of North Sacramento. Together they raised two sons, Christopher (eldest) and Keith. They spent most of their married life living in Sacramento, California. Sadly, Christopher also proceeded her in death in 2020.
Saul worked in his own barber shop. Rose worked as a nurse’s aide at Mercy Hospital, and then in retail at Weinstock’s until her retirement. She particularly enjoyed the housewares department, where she developed a real love for china and collectibles.
Rose was an avid reader. Her love of reading, and her faith, helped her through difficult times. She also enjoyed crocheting, sewing, gardening, painting, antiques, dolls, collectibles, and all things Gone With the Wind.
Rose was a positive and sweet natured person, and met challenges along the way with grace and practicality. She was content with making the most out of what she had. Rose was a supportive mother-in-law to Liz, and a proud grandmother of two; Lauren and Ian. She remained very close to her sisters, nieces, and nephews. It was her love for her family that was most precious to her, and what she will be the most remembered for. Rose passed at the age of 96, and it was a life truly well lived and full of love!
The staff at Sunset Lawn Chapel of the Chimes wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Rosa Martinez at this very difficult time.
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