Joe S. Martinez

On July 15, 2023, the Martinez family said goodbye to the most important person in the Martinez family, Joe S. Martinez, at the age of 89. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Born in Amarillo, Texas, on March 19, 1934, to Pedro Martinez and Maria Jesus Sanchez.

?In 1943, Joe and his parents along with his siblings, lived in Oceanside, where his father passed away. His mother then relocated the family to Hollister, CA, where Joe worked as a foreman for Nutting Ranch and served in the National Guard. In 1952, he met his lifelong love, Mary Bocanegra, and eloped in Reno before starting their family.?

Joe pursued his passion for barbering by studying at Moler Barber College and becoming a licensed barber in 1959. The couple then moved to Watsonville, and in 1968, he bought Freedom Barbershop from Dale James. Joe was loved and well-respected by his customers for 45 years. He will forever be remembered as a "Legendary Barber" in the community. In 2005, Joe retired from cutting hair and left a lasting legacy behind. Joe was known for his passion of classic cars, traveling to swap meets, and enjoyed going to garage sales in search of fascinating finds. He was a clean-cut and respectful gentleman who was loved by many.

?Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Mary Martinez (his Honey), parents, and siblings. Joe is the last of ten siblings, and we know they are all welcoming him home with open arms. He leaves behind six sons, their spouses, thirteen grandchildren, and twenty great-grandchildren who will fondly remember his stories and witty sense of humor.?

The Martinez family will forever be grateful for the love and memories Joe shared throughout his life. Until we meet again, we'll keep you close in our hearts. We love you, boa noite, Papa Joe.

Published in The Pajaronian · July 28, 2023