Oscar Martinez

   It is with very heavy hearts to announce that our beloved brother, son, nephew, father, uncle, cousin and friend, Oscar Martinez, went to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on October 14, 2024. Oscar was born on June 29, 1973, in Indio, California, to Ofelia and Sigifredo Martinez. He was raised in Coachella alongside his older brother Reynaldo ( Rey), and little sister Patricia (Patty). Together with their cousins Ofelia, Cecilia, Silvia, and Cristina, they experienced a magical childhood filled with adventure -and most of all- laughter. This laughter and these memories will remain forever in everyone’s hearts, minds, and souls.  He was the family favorite to many, including his beloved aunt (Tia Lupe) and Grandmother Sara. Anyone who knew Oscar quickly became aware that his mother, Ofelia, was everything to him.  He had a remarkable relationship with his beloved mother Ofelia.  He would visit or contact her multiple times per day to check in . Together they shared an unbreakable bond and an eternal love. They were best friends who shared deep, meaningful conversations and inside jokes. He shared a strong and brotherly love with Rey, and the two were always inseparable. As kids, they served as altar boys at Our Lady of Soledad Catholic Church. Here he was also baptized, received first communion, and completed his confirmation. Over the years, the brothers were active in little league baseball, Karate, High School band, football, basketball, and golf. They were often on an adventure with their Dad. From riding in his dad’s Semi truck, to fishing, to three-wheel motorcycle riding in the sand dunes, it was always clear that Oscar enjoyed the fun times in life with his family. Oscar had a joyful connection with his dad Sig and always liked to joke with him. When his father became ill, Oscar did not hesitate to step in and assist him with his care at the end of his life. Oscar himself was blessed with two beautiful boys, and was a dedicated working father who maintained a 25-year career with Sky West. He ensured that his sons Zackery and Nathan were covered by his benefits. He also had a close and special relationship with his sister Patty. He would often tell her that she was his favorite person in the world. Oscar was a very sentimental person, so it was no surprise when he sobbed when meeting Patty's baby girl Arabell for the very first time. He was ecstatic that his baby sister was a mother. He was a teacher of anything that he knew- especially to his children. From car maintenance ,to cooking, and any other trade that he knew. He encouraged and supported his son Nathan to excel in school. He was proud that he was accepted to advanced courses of study. Oscar was a perfectionist and always ensured that he was completing any task perfectly and safely. 

Above all, Oscar’s life was defined by spreading joy and sharing his huge generous heart and smile with everyone. This included all living things, from a ladybug landing on his shirt, to the pets that he cherished throughout the years. He especially cherished Sargent, his English Bulldog that he loved as a young boy. His most recently loved pet was Princess, a teacup Pomeranian that he shared with his son Nathan, and his Mother Devon. He was also skilled in BBQ. Often he was the grill master of the home, and to his Sky West family at work. He really loved preparing meals for his friends and family. Oscar was not afraid to tell you that he loved you. He would say it often, over and over again, to those that he loved. This will be his legacy. 

 Early on, Oscar exhibited a fascination with avionics, its history, and how he could make it part of his life. As a young boy, he built model airplanes, and hung them in his room with fishing lines from the ceiling. Oscar graduated from Coachella Valley High School class of ‘91 where he was crowned Prom King during his senior year, demonstrating how well-liked he was by his classmates. His favorite movies were Top Gun and The Hunt for Red October, so it was no surprise that he joined the US Navy shortly after his High School Graduation. He proudly served his country for 6 years, working in his beloved field of avionics. He was deployed overseas aboard the USS Carl Vinson and his decorations include: the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Although Oscar was very involved with the NAVY during his enlistment, he always took the time to check in back home by sending his mother Post Cards from his various locations including San Diego, Japan, and Indonesia. While in Indonesia, he purchased a gold necklace for his sister Patty, with the inscription in the native writing stating " Happiness" on it to remind her to always be happy. 

    After completing his time in the NAVY, Oscar continued his dream of working in avionics with Sky West, where he began his 25 year career in 1998.  Throughout the years he has been based in Fresno and Palm Springs where his tireless work ethic has left a lasting impact. He was also part of the Avionics Mod Team and helped support several different projects across the system. Oscar was a loyal and dedicated employee who wore his uniform with pride. He was well respected and liked by his colleagues who appreciated his knowledge and expertise. 

“He lit up the room so fast with his outgoing and positive personality.", said maintenance manager Cesar Valero . He was also a good hand in helping out with special events at the base. He was known by his colleagues for his big heart. He spoke often about how much he loved his family.  Oscar was an avid music and sports fan. He was always rooting for his favorite teams, the Dodgers and the Raiders, and he was able to visit Dodger stadium earlier this year to enjoy a game. 

 One of the last scriptures that Oscar heard was “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” ( Luke 2:9-11, 13-13).  This fits our beloved Oscar’s lifestyle perfectly. 

He is survived by his Mother Ofelia Martinez, son Zackery Martinez, son Nathan Sig Martinez , brother Reynaldo Martinez, niece Lia Martinez, niece Mia Martinez, Sister Patricia M. Garcia , niece Arabell Alina Garcia. He is preceded in death by his son Jared Martinez, father Sigifredo Martinez, brother Sigifredo Martinez Jr. and his Grandmother Sara Coronado.

A mass will be held at Our Lady of Soledad Church on November 8, 2024 from 10:00 - 1100 AM followed by a 21 Gun Salute by the American Legion Post 739. Located at 52980 Cesar Chavez Street Street, Coachella, Ca 92236