Rito Martinez

Rito R. Martinez, 82, of Van Wert passed away at 12:06 AM on August 29, 2020 at Lima Memorial Hospital.

He was born on May 22, 1938, in Hondo, Texas, to the Leandro L. and Georgia (Rodriquez) Martinez. Rito enlisted in the United States Army Reserves on February 14, 1956 with ER 25 847 950 Infantry. He served for 2 years and was honorably discharged on July 10, 1958 as a PFC.

Rito retired from Sunoco in 1997 after 30 years. After retiring he took a part-time job at Big Lots. His favorite hobbies included tinkering in his basement, cooking and spending time with his wife, kids and grandkids. He will be missed by many.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Maria Morales Martinez; sons, Joe (Julie); Tony (Angie); Chris (Kim); brothers: Fred, Lee, Joe, John and Jessie; sisters: Helen and Carol; 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Paula; granddaughter, Belinda; sisters: Lupe Martinez, Esperanza Velazquez and Jane Stetler.

Funeral will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 3, 2020 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home with Rev. Roger Peugh officiating. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 PM on Wednesday, September 02, 2020 at the funeral home.

Although family and friends are invited to attend Rito's visitation and services, we continue to be cautious and concerned for those who are most vulnerable, the elderly and those with serious health issues. We strongly urge everyone to remain vigilant and respect the well-being of the family members and friends. Attendees are asked to observe social distancing, refrain from close physical contact, and wear facial coverings as required by state mandate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Rito`s memory may be sent to his family .

To share in Rito's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington Street, Van Wert, OH 45891.