Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church 837 Jeanette St, Abilene, TX 79602 with Rev. Albert Ezeanya officiating. Interment will follow in Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories where he will be laid to rest with his daughter. Visitation will be held at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home on Thursday evening from 5-7:00 PM. A Rosary will begin at 7:00 PM.
Rick was born on January 22, 1947, in Abilene to the late Andres Lopez Martinez, Sr. and Bartola Martinez. He was raised in a loving close-knit family. He married Otila Gonzalez on November 7, 1965. Together they raised their three children and made their home in Abilene. He began his working career alongside his father and brothers. He was a true craftsman and had a great attention to detail. He contributed his talents to several companies to include being a union carpenter for Rose & Sons Construction and Lead Superintendent for C.B Oates for many years. In 1992, Rick’s Construction was established, where he served as a contractor for the City of Abilene and many private projects.
From a young age, Rick loved music. He was a part of several groups through the years: Roy & The Romans, Rick and the Romans and Los Preferidos. He served his church through his gift of music as well. He was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where his fingerprint can be seen throughout numerous ministries and the physical edifice itself. He also served as a Eucharistic Minister in the past. He was a member of Knights of Columbus, 4th degree Assembly 1116 and a 3rd degree with Council 12163. He was an avid golfer at Shady Oaks and in the past had been a little league coach. He was humble and gave of himself in any way he could to help others. He was hardworking and an excellent provider for his family. He was blessed beyond measure and everything his hands touched seemed to prosper. He faced adversity with determination and strong will. His sudden passing leaves a void in his family and community; however memories and his legacy of service will live on.
He was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Edna San Juanita Martinez Melendrez ; his parents Mr. and Mrs. Martinez; infant sister, Gloria Martinez.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Otila Martinez; daughter, Christa Martinez, his son, Ricky J. Martinez and his wife, Molly; grandchildren, Alexa and Lane; great-grandson, Ezra; his son-in-law, Ruben Melendrez; his siblings Fernando (Victoria), Andres Jr.(Janie), Jimmy (Naomi), Robert (Becky), John (Linda), Maria Flores, Susana (Abe) Santibanez, Dora Resendez. He also leaves to cherish his memory his beloved Gonzalez in-laws, a host of nieces, nephews, colleagues, and many friends.
Memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Sacred Heart Building Fund.
