Jose R. Martinez, age 69 of Defiance died Saturday, May 14 2022 at his residence.  He was born on December 29, 1952 to Jesus and Jovita (Rodriquez) Martinez at Heller Memorial Hospital in Napoleon, Ohio.  He graduated from Napoleon High School in 1973.

He served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps in Hawaii and worked as a guard, driver, and scuba diver.  He also worked as a welder and mechanic. Jose liked martial arts, drawing, collecting shells, archery, hunting and fishing, including spear fishing. He even enjoyed making his own spears. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, especially his wife, Elizabeth.

Jose married his long time partner, Elizabeth Shaffer on November 13, 2020.  They were together for over twenty-five years.  Jose was never shy about showing his love for Elizabeth and was known to serenade her with love songs. He leaves behind 4 step-daughters, Kathy Kestner, Karen Schwiebert, Karol McCance and Kelly Junge; 15 step-grandchildren and 32 great step-grandchildren. He is survived by his family Albert Rodriquez, Oralia (Martinez) Cantu, Jesus and Deborah (Demlow) Martinez; Jacka and Josephine (Martinez) Green; Edward and Jovita (Martinez) Villaovas, Olga (Martinez) Reyna; Ray Martinez; Mark and Rita (Martinez) Bostic.

Jose was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Guadalupe Rosales, Juan Martinez, Martin Martinez and Ricardo Martinez.

There will be a graveside service at Riverside Cemetery on Tuesday, May 24 at 11:00 am.  Military Honors will be conducted by VFW Post# 3360. Memorials are suggested to the family. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.