In loving memory of
Jack P. Martinez Jr.
September 18, 1936 - January 4, 2020
Jack P. Martinez (9/18/1936-1/4/2020), was born in Trinidad, Colorado and spent his formative years in Colorado Springs. He resided in Des Moines for 57 years.
Jack attended Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas where he met the love of his life Patricia Barnes in 1955. They were married in 1957 and would have celebrated their 63 wedding anniversary on Jan. 27. They moved to Des Moines, Iowa in 1962 and made it their permanent home where they raised their four daughters.
Jack was a career insurance professional, beginning and ending his career at Preferred Risk Insurance (Guide One Insurance) but also spending several years at Bankers Life (Principal Insurance). After retirement he spent time in his most fulfilling career as a manny to his grandson Joe.
Jack was passionate about all forms of art. Most vacations included visits to museums and gardens. He was a gifted amateur photographer, photographing thousands of humorous candid subjects and nature's beauty. Later in life he discovered his talent for writing poetry.
Jack is survived by his wife Patricia, daughters Anna Mari Martinez (Louis Laurent), Tanna Ricci (Patrick), Martha Brightman, and Mary Martinez (Jonathon Muller), sister Mary Benedict (Daniel), six grandchildren, Danny Brightman, Chelsea Legner (Ryan), Patrick Ricci IV, Cole Ricci, Joe Muller and Ben Muller, and one great-grandchild, Jack Legner.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 29 from 4:30p-6:30p at Grounds for Celebration Coffee Shop, 2709 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50310. A eulogy will be delivered at 5:15p.