Jose Martinez

Jose R. "Joe" Martinez, 73, of Van Wert, joined his mother, Gregoria, for eternal life with the Lord on Monday, April 29, 2024. He will be remembered in the hearts of those who knew him as a kind and devoted husband, father, and brother.

Born on November 19, 1950, in Hondo, Texas, to the late Leandro and Gregoria (Rodriguez) Martinez, Joe spent his life dedicated to hard work and family. He found love in the eyes of his beloved wife, Connie, and together, they embraced 26 years of cherished marriage.

Growing up in Van Wert, Joe journeyed through life with honor, serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Conflict. Following his military service, he contributed his talents to Borden's Cheese Factory until its closing and then on to a dedicated tenure at Sonoc/Grief Brothers from which he retired after 27 years of service.

Joe's spirit soared whenever he cheered on the Pittsburgh Steelers and Notre Dame Fighting Irish, or watched in anticipation as Jeff Gordon raced across the NASCAR track. His generosity knew no bounds, and his family always held a special place in his heart. He was also a member of the American Legion.

Joe is survived by his wife, Connie; daughter, Nichola Warneke and her husband, Doug; grandson, Zach Spear, who was the light of his life; stepdaughter, Kimberly (Eric) Bauman and her children, Rich Klinger, Brooke (Shane) Barnes; brothers: Fred Martinez, Lee (Bev) Martinez, John Pisarro; sisters: Carol Diaz-Martinez, Maria Casarez; several step great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews as well as his favorite cat, Johnny.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by brothers: Rito and Jesse Martinez; sisters: Guadalupe Martinez, Esperanza Valdez and Sanjuana Stetler; an infant brother and sister; a step great grandson and 2 nieces and 2 nephews.

Services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 3, 2024 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, OH. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 PM on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions in Joe's name may be made to American Legion Post 178, 631 W Main St, Van Wert, OH 45891.

Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory. To share in Joe's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.