Marie Salome Martinez

Marie Salome Mendoza was born on October 22, 1917 to Cleofas and Encarnacion Mendoza. Marie was the fifth of 16 siblings. At an early age, her father discovered that Salome had been blessed with the ability to sing. An accomplished musician himself, he began to teach Salome Mexican ballads. She would eventually perform with her dad at weddings, dances and other social events. Performing together was a way they earned money to support the family—especially after the Great Depression of 1929 began. She was 13 years old! Salome and her sister Victoria also joined the church choir. She continued performing until she met and married Simon Martinez at the age of 17.

Marie and Simon would have eight children: Simon Jr., Mary Helen, Marie Dolores, Tony, Samuel, Lydia, John and Mario. Marie was an active parent volunteer during the school-age years of her children. She helped with school fundraisers, booster clubs and other school events.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Simon, her son Viyo, and two grandsons, Nicky and Kyle.

She is survived by seven children, 24 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren.

A Visitation will be held from 3 to 9 p.m. and a Rosary from 7 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2019 at Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel, 710 Willow St., San Jose. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 5, 2019 at St. Christopher Catholic Church, 2278 Booksin Ave., San Jose. Burial to follow at Oak Hill Memorial Park.