Rufino Martinez, Jr.

Rufino Martinez, Jr., age 79, of Hondo, Texas, passed away on June 4, 2023, in Hondo. Rufino was born in San Antonio, Texas, on March 14, 1944, to Guadalupe and Rufino Martinez, Sr.

Rufino is preceded in death by his son: Rufino Martinez, III; parents: Guadalupe and Rufino Martinez, Sr.; brother: Joe Albert Martinez; and sisters: Eugenia “Bebe” Contreras, Amalia Perez, and Amalia Martinez (child).

Rufino is survived by his loving wife: Carmel Martinez; son: Abel Martinez; daughters: Esmeralda Martinez, and Sue Ann Martinez (Ken Duren); daughter-in-law: Cindy Duron; sisters: Olga Contreras (Roro), and Susan Cabrera; brothers: Ramon Martinez, Sr. (the late Rosa), John Henry Martinez, Sr. (Linda), and Frank Martinez (Melissa); 11 grandchildren: Jaelizza, Sierra, Amanda, Rufino IV, Shawn, Dylan, Vinny (Trisha), Isabella, Ben, Shaylin, and Tristan; and 5 great-grandchildren.

Rufino married the love of his life, Carmel Ybarra, at the age of 16. Prior to being married, he worked as a field worker, and traveled as far as Chicago. Later, he worked as a ranch hand, a cook at Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera, and was a car test driver. He was proud to have participated in the movie The Alamo starring John Wayne. He also worked for Grant's BBQ and the Bowling Alley in Hondo. He served in the Texas State Guard Military Police, and also did volunteer work with Hondo Police Department officer Arnold Guajardo. Additional jobs he held included working for the City of Hondo, Hondo Live Auction, and Gary Aircraft for 11 years as a Master Electrician.

Rufino and his brothers started the Martinez & Sons Hay Haulers serving the Hondo community. He attended San Antonio Trade School where he earned his small Engine Repair certification, and then started his small engine repair business. His latest occupation was serving as a landlord for his rental properties.

In addition, he enjoyed volunteering in the food ministry at the Cowboy Church. He had a big heart and was always helping others. For some, he was known as the "Mayor of 12th street", as the community knew they could count on him. He also volunteered as the neighborhood watch leader.

He held many titles, and many positions; but his first priority was to his family as a father, husband, grandpa, son, and a brother.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., followed by a prayer service from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Hondo Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at Hondo Funeral Home, followed by interment at Hondo Cemetery.

Services are under the direction of Hondo Funeral Home.