Rosa Rosales Martinez

Martinez, Rosa Rosales
Rosa Rosales Martinez, a lifelong resident of Chandler, AZ whose parents were among the first Hispanic immigrants to the Southeast Valley, passed away March 15, 2011, in Chandler, one day before her 88th birthday, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Mar. 16, 1923 to Agustin and Trinidad Rosales in the small farming community of Chandler. Within the Hispanic community, it was common in those days that the children worked along with their parents in the crop fields throughout the Phoenix Metro area. It was a hard life but faith, family, and community were at the center of that life. Her father Agustin was an established Hispanic
community leader who helped develop the town of Chandler. Rosa enjoyed many memorable times with her family and friends. She was able to attend elementary school when not working in the fields. Later she worked as a chamber maid at the San Marcos Hotel. On Nov. 30, 1946, she married Jose Valdivia Martinez, also an early resident of Chandler and together they raised 14 children. Through their many sacrifices, all of the children attended St. Mary's/St Mary's Basha Catholic Elementary and graduated from Seton Catholic High School. When Jose died at the young age of 57, Rosa's faith and love sustained the family. She was the "glue" that held the family together. She was a precious gem who filled her home with love and music and, of course, the smell of delicious meals. Who can forget her tortillas and tamales. Rosa is survived by 13 of her 14 children, Joe Martinez (Irene), Mary Palomino (Ernie), Carmen Sanchez, George Martinez (Rosie), Roberto Martinez, Cecilia Martinez, Olivia Mendoza (John), MaryAnn Gonzalez, Carlos Martinez (Irene), Rose Martinez Lopez (Richard), Margarita Brady (David), Grace Alvarado (Art) and Theresa Martinez (Brent Dominguez); 44 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Paul Martinez. She is also survived by 8 of her 10 siblings, Susan Rosales, Helen Padilla, Josie Garza, Agustin Rosales, Sisto Rosales, Pete Rosales, Rudolfo Rosales and Margaret Reyes; and 3 sisters-in-law, Frances Celicio, Katie Archibald and Tillie Arvizu. She leaves many cherished memories. Her life will be celebrated on Tues., Mar. 22, 2011 beginning with Rosary and Visitation at 10:00 am and followed by the Requiem Mass at 11:00 am at St Mary's Catholic Church, 230 W. Galveston, in Chandler. Burial services will follow at Valley of the Sun Memorial Park in Chandler. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the loving staff at Corona Adult Care Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chandler's St Mary's Catholic Church St. Vincent De Paul or Hospice of the Valley.