Jesus Martinez

MARTINEZ Jesus Roberto Martinez, also known to his friends and family as "Jesse" and "TunTun", passed away on Friday, January 7, 2011 at the youthful age of 59. He was born on October 25, 1951 in El Paso, Texas. He attended Burgess High School. Jesse enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1969 and served in Vietnam. He was Honorably Discharged in 1975. Jesse attended the University of Texas at El Paso earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology and a minor in sociology. A Master of Education degree in Guidance and Counseling, with an emphasis on Community Agency Counseling followed. He completed both degrees with the highest honors awarded in the department. Utilizing his military and life experiences, along with his license to practice counseling in Texas, Jesse was instrumental in the guidance and counseling of individuals undergoing addiction therapy for chemical dependency. His most recent position was as medical liaison for the Opportunity Center for the Homeless and Thomason Hospital. During this time he implemented an innovative program connecting three different entities providing efficient temporary housing for the homeless population upon discharge from Thomason Hospital. The Opportunity Center Medical Case Management program continues to serve the homeless population with great success. Prior to this position he was a case manager and counselor at the El Paso Rescue Mission. Jesse contributed greatly to the success of those participating in the rehabilitation programs through his service, mentoring, and guidance. Jesse was also a strong advocate for his fellow military veterans. In addition to helping the community, Jesse was a devoted and loving husband and father. Jesse and Vanessa Ramos wed in August 2002. They were blessed with the birth of their son Elijah Roberto Martinez on March 2009. In addition to enjoying spending time with his wife and young son, Jesse enjoyed reading, listening to music, and watching sports. He was preceded in death by his mother Carmen E. Martinez. In addition to Vanessa and Elijah, his other family members include son Xavier and daughter Petra, his father Patricio, brothers Raymundo and Julian, and sisters Maria Del Carmen Ray and Patricia Martinez Molinar. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to the El Paso Opportunity Center for the Homeless. His family wants to thank all the doctors, nurses, and staff that provided Jesse with the greatest care and comfort during Jesse's battle with cancer. Special thanks to the Texas Oncology Clinic including Dr. Ragene Rivera, the radiology and pharmacy staff, and infusion nurses Yvonne and Cristina. Gratitude is also extended to Dr. Luis Guerra of The Doctors In, Dr. Erasto Cortes, and Dr. Jose Calderon of the El Paso V.A. Health System. A Celebration of his life and viewing will be held Monday from 5 - 9 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel Martin Central. A mass will be held Tuesday at 12:45 pm at Our Lady of the Light Church on Delta followed by interment at 2 p.m. at Fort Bliss Cemetery. "Love yourself" these are words Jesse shared with many people and today we share them with you.