Alfred Martinez

Alfred Martinez (June 1924-July 2024) was born to Faustina and Miguel “Mike” Martinez founders of El Fenix Restaurants. Alfred along with his siblings: Irene, Mike Jr., Hortencia, Henry, Gilbert, Reuben, and Tina grew their parent’s legacy from the 1950s through the 2000s. Alfred was the face and host of the El Fenix on McKinney Ave. Downtown Dallas. He attended Travis Elementary School and graduated from North Dallas High School in 1941. After his HS graduation he volunteered for the US Army Air Force and ascended to the rank of First Lieutenant. After WW2 Alfred married Anita Nanez who would become the first Mexican American elected to the Dallas City Council (two terms) and at 96 years of age received the SMU’s degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. Alfred and Anita gave birth to and raised four children to share their love for each other: Al Joseph, Steve, Priscilla, and Rene. Alfred was a firm but fair father who worked at what he loved to do so that his family could thrive. Alfred was an accomplished flamenco guitar player and shared his gift with El Fenix customers and friends. Alfred lived a long life and died calmly at home. Alfred is survived by his wife, Hon., Dr. Anita N. Martinez and his four children, grandchildren: Luis Fernandez, Ana Palacios (husband Noe, daughter Alejandra), Stefani Martinez Foster (husband Kris, sons Kale and Knox), Luis Fernandez (son-in-law) and Faustina “Tina” Martinez the last surviving child born to Mama Tina and Papa Mike Martinez.

…..it may be when his life at last comes to an end he will leave no more trace of his sojourn on this earth than a stone thrown into a river leaves on the surface of the water. Yet it may be that the way of life he has chosen for himself may have an ever-growing influence over his fellow man. So that long after his death it may be realized that there lived in this age a very remarkable creature. W. Somerset Maugham

In lieu of flowers Please Donate to Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico 4422 Live Oak St., Dallas, Texas 75204 or https://www.anmbf.org/.

Monday, July 22, 2024 - 9:00am Visitation and Rosary – 11:00am Mass – 12:00pm Entombment. Calvary Hill Funeral & Cemetery North Chapel 3235 Lombardy Lane, Dallas, Texas 75220.