Tony N. Martinez was born on June 27, 1938 to Nasario & Ramona Martinez and passed away in his Gilroy home on August 18, 2016.

Tony was just one year old when his father, Nasario fell victim to the disease tuberculosis at the young age of 27. For a time, Tony was raised by his grandmother, Petra. While Tony had much adversity in his young life, he was blessed to have his uncle Ramon Martinez, his wife Anita and his aunt Rosa Gama by his side to support, encourage and to help raise him with tough love. They were kind, thoughtful, determined, and loving toward him.

In 1956 Tony met Estella while at his Aunt Rosa's home in San Jose, CA on Hensley Street. Estella was not interested in Tony initially, but he was able to charm her and win her over. Perhaps through his skilled guitar playing and singing. They were married on a cloudy day on November 13, 1960. They had four children; Diane, Tina, Laurie and Tony Jr.

Tony believed in discipline, structure and hard work. All of which he felt he learned serving in the military for 26 years and working for the City of San Jose for 30 years. He was very proud of his contribution and success in the military and at the City of San Jose. He instilled in his children the value of hard work, a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Tony was most happy while riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, attending motorcycle rallies, classic car shows, being head cook at a BBQ, listening to Fat's Domino, Hank Williams, 50's music or plucking on his guitar singing Mujer with Estella and drinking some beers with family and friends. He also loved to play a prank or to tease one of his sisters during many of the family gatherings in Stockton, CA. Some of his hobbies included wood work, restoring vintage furniture and working on vintage cars. As young as twenty years of age, he enjoyed working in his vegetable garden. Tomatoes, cucumbers and chilies were his favorite produce to grow and eat.

Tony lived 78 long years. While it still seems like a short life, it was a full life. While he overcame much adversity, he managed to raise a family in security and comfort. He enjoyed 24 years of retirement. He spent his time with family, friends and his peers at the America Legion Post 11, Madera, CA where he was the Commander.

Toward the end of his life, Tony was strong, courageous, and steady. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Tony is survived by his beloved wife of over 55 years, Estella and their children; Diane Longoria, Tina Hernandez, Laurie Blandini & Tony Martinez Jr. and their grandchildren; Jenna Hernandez, Ryan Hernandez, Bella Blandini, Ezra & Isaac Martinez.
Sons-in-law: Jeronimo Longoria, Jr., Ruben Hernandez and Mario Blandini
Siblings: Anita Jerologa, Josie Lovato, Danny Alejo, Esther Ramirez and Nancy Camacho

He was preceded in death by his following siblings: Margie Guzman, Louis Alejo, Rosie Alejo, Mary Ruiz

In lieu of flowers, tribute donations may be made to: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. To make a tribute donation, please click on the link below.
https://secure.pancan.org/site/Donation2?df_id=1520&1520.donation=form1
Pancan.org

Visitation will be Saturday, September 10, 2016, at Habing Family Funeral Home from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm followed by Funeral Mass at 2:00 pm at St. Mary's Church.