Dr. Rafael Alberto Martinez passed on August 20, 2019 in Miami, FL with his wife Magdalena Martinez Garcia and family at his side. Aged 86, he walked into the light of the everlasting knowing that he lived a life full of dedication to his family, love of his island and passion for his distinguished career. Dr. Martinez’s memory carries on by the countless lives saved and soothed due to his remarkable diagnostic ability and his profound connection with children.
Dr. Martinez was born in Willemstad, Curaçao on August 22, 1932 to Florentino Martinez and Carmen Badaracco Martinez. A precocious boy whose imagination would turn tin cans into grand forts, he quickly transformed into a kind young man whose dedication to academics and humanity reflected in his pursuit of medicine. While studying at Fordham University in New York City, he discovered America’s pastime, his profound love for the Yankees accompanied him throughout his life. Upon graduating from Georgetown University School of Medicine, he specialized in pediatrics at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. While in the City where he would retire, he met his loving wife who returned with him to his beloved Curaçao. Their union set the stage for generations of Curazoleños, who are proud of their heritage and more importantly of the man responsible for their connection to the Island.
Dr. Martinez is survived by his wife Magdalena Martinez Garcia, daughter Marielena Martinez, son-in-law Tom Simes, granddaughter Anastasia Simes Martinez, grandson Hunter Simes, son Carlos Martinez, granddaughter Isabella Martinez, daughter Melissa Martinez-Esteve, son-in-law Alejandro Martinez-Esteve, grandson Sebastian Martinez-Esteve, grandson Mateo Martinez-Esteve, brother Jorge Martinez, sister-in-law Rita Bacchella, niece Joanne Martinez, niece Christine Jacobus and family, niece Karen Reese and family, nephew Michael Jas and family, and many cherished cousins and their families.
His family will celebrate his legacy by enjoying time together, travelling the world, and enjoying an occasional rum and coke while playing dominos and poker.
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