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Eddy Martinez Obituary

Eddy (Eduardo) J. Martinez July 1, 1955 - March 28, 2008 Resident of Concord Eddy was a much loved East Bay area guitarist and musician. His talent and love of music led him to play many styles, he also taught guitar locally for many years. Eddy was an early member of the Flat Nasty Band, The Gateway Band and taught guitar at Gills music. Later he played as a session guitarist and jammed with many famous people. He frequented Vinnie's in Concord. He was an instant friend to many and will be missed for his warmth and compassion. He will be missed by his family and friends. He now is at rest and at peace in God's care. Eddy was preceded in death by his father Ralph O Martinez. He is survived by his mother, Gloria Martinez; sister, Maria Elena; his brother Victor; his son, Michael Russo, daughter, Merci Elena; granddaughter, Makayla Russo; and nephews, Matthew and Zachary. Vigil Service will be held from 4-7pm, Thursday, April 3rd, Holy Angels\Holy Cross Cemetery, Antioch. Funeral Mass will be held Friday, April 4th, 10am at Holy Rosary Church, Antioch. Arrangements by Holy Angels\Holy Cross (925) 757-0658.

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Published by Contra Costa Times on Apr. 2, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Eddy Martinez

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Shari Sheldon

December 10, 2023

We miss you Eddie. You had magic fingers. God bless you !!

V

November 9, 2023

Eddy - May You rest In Peace. Some of the stuff you played in the middle of the night when no one was awake was from another world. The Tunings you learned from the "Down South" Clubs were the real deal. Feel Lucky to have met.
V

Darren Travis

December 24, 2016

We were just talking about Eddy.. it's Christmas Eve 2016.. and we were just thinking about him and his guitar playing.. I took a couple lessons from him when I was 13 at gills on 5th street.. I think
I later played in SADUS .. just thinking of him
RIP my friend...

anita viramontes-Colotto

August 14, 2015

I felt like a star next to your light. What we had was blissful and sweet and charming. Always in my heart.

Anita Viramontes-Colotto

August 14, 2015

I had not heard of Eddie's passing til today! I hope he knows how much he was loved and admired.
Anita

helen james

March 15, 2015

this is a little late, but I just found out about eddys passing. he was one of the first people I met when I moved to Antioch 30 years ago, a single mom trying to find my way, and he was such friendly welcoming kind of guy. my friends and I would go see him play at baby simons or the boathouse, but I remember this one evening in particular, tracks was playing at the boat house and they called eddy on stage and he sang "they call me the breeze" and brought the house down. he was just one of those kind of guys you always thought you'd see again someday. he had such a gentle soul, so I just wanted to say thanks for all the music. god bless you eddy and may you rest in peace.

September 15, 2011

Hard to believe it's been about 3-1/2 years since Eddy passed. He touched all of us and we were all so lucky to have been a part of his life. I really enjoy the stories everyone has shared of Eddy, and if you'd like to get in touch with the family, you can reach me at [email protected]. Victor

Val

September 12, 2011

Victor, my heart goes out to you and your family. Eddy has always been a good brother. It is nice to hear how others remember him. His big heart, his love of guitar and his love of you, his brother. I feel so lucky to have share a part of his life.

Mark Cooksey

September 29, 2008

I recently found out about Eddy's passing. I was deeply saddened and sorry that I wasn't there for Eddy's mom, his sister and his brother Victor. Eddy was my best friend since I was six years old. When we were growing up there wasn't a day that went by that we were not at each other's house or on the phone with each other. I was lucky to see Eddy's first appearance playing his baby blue guitar that his mom and dad had bought for him. It was at a talent show at John Marsh Elementary School. Eddy played House Of The Rising Sun. People gathered around Eddy after the show-kids and parents alike. It was obvious that Eddy would never put down his guitar. As we grew up we went fishing and camping and got in some minor trouble here and there. Eddy was great at slipping or falling and even chipping a tooth falling off a run-a-way pogo stick down his driveway. When we got older we saw less of each other but when we talked it was if we had talked just the day before. Eddy called me in February but I wasn't home. He talked to my wife and told her all about his ups and downs. I tried to call Eddy back but as usual he was out making music. I left a message for him that I was happy he had called. Eddy had a big heart and could make you laugh or cry. I'm glad he was part of my life.

Lisa Clawson Roay

July 20, 2008

I took guitar lessons from Eddy. He taught me so much. He was a great person and a great guitar player. It is such a shame he left us so soon. Thank for eveything Eddy. See you on the other side.

Donna J Smith

June 3, 2008

We were blessed to have Eddy play at our wedding, 26 years ago. We danced our first dance together. You will always be in our hearts!!!! Smitty and Donna (Mrs. D) Oakley

Joyce Steinmann (Carver)

May 7, 2008

I only just found out and am still in shock. have tried googling Eddy so many times and could never find anything, almost wish I never did.
My condolences go out to the family and my prayers are with you all.
Eddy was the one great love in my life, I have never forgotten him or stopped thinking about him, wondering how he is, even though it has been over 30 years since we lived together, and nearly 10 years since I last saw him.
He was the warmest, funniest, most loving person and as everyone knows, the greatest guitarist around. May he rest in peace.

LUCY SANCHEZ,WETZEL

April 24, 2008

MY CONDOLENCES TO THE MARTINEZ FAMILY. WE RODE THE SCHOOL BUS TOGETHER. I WAS GOOD FRIENDS WITH SISTER SUSAN. SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS HE WAS A VERY NICE GUY AND A GREAT MUSICIAN.

Trish Roney

April 22, 2008

Besides being a sweet guy, Eddy was Antioch's Carlos Santana, Jimi Hendrix, etc. which makes him a legend in our once small town. He will never be forgotten. I will always remember those Flat Nasty days dancing to Freebird, Eddy on lead guitar, at "the barn"!

Keith Copas

April 18, 2008

The time on stage- always too short....
The music and smiles given, ripple out into time and our hearts forever.
Thanks for the music and smiles, Eddy!

Alex Fierros

April 17, 2008

Wow....Chongo was one of the most genuine people you could ever meet. His humor was so enjoyed by my Mom and Dad. I always looked up to him as a person and a great guitarist. He so inspired me that I learned to play guitar. I still can hear his smoking guitar licks on his Gretch Super Axe. Man he could sure play!!! I'm sure he's in heaven jamming with Hendrix, Harrison and Vaughn right now. He will be greatly missed but his big spirit still lives on. God bless………

Dan Reed

April 17, 2008

I'll never forget Eddie, my first Bass teacher. He was so patient with this 8th grade geek! "Hey Baby" by Ted Nugent, I always think of Eddie when I hear it. That was the first tune he taught me.

Jeff Gill

April 14, 2008

Eddy,

I love you brother but you were the loudest freakin’ guitar player I ever played with!! I can still hear Shane saying time and time again, “Come on Ed, just turn it down man!” It doesn’t matter though because most important, our friends and audience always loved you; and you made our bands rock!

We played together since we were two young hot-shot 12 year olds at Webb’s Music Center. Larry Murphy put us in a band with some high school kids. I remember our first gig at the Antioch City Park when some jerks threw tomatoes at us!. I think that was in 1968 and we all dressed alike with matching scarves! Then I remember our fist paid gig at the Gondolier Pizza Parlor with Russ Lanier when we made $20 apiece. Then over the next ten years it was lots of great music with Flat Nasty, Moondance, Paleface and probably a few more bands that I can’t even remember.

Ed, to most people your legacy will be that of a great solo guitarist, (and rightly so) but to me you will be remembered as one of the most kind-hearted, compassionate souls that I have ever met. To God be the glory brother. If I make it to Heaven, I’m hoping that you will let me play in your band!

VIC MARTINEZ

April 12, 2008

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF YOU FOR KIND WORDS ABOUT MY BROTHER ED.GOD NEEDED A NEW LEAD GUITARIST IN HIS BAND,AND IM SO HONORED THAT HE PICK MY BROTHER!!.IT HURTS TO LET HIM GO ,BUT I KNOW HES IN A MUCH BETTER PLACE NOW,HES PLAYING TO SOLD OUT CROWDS,AND HES PLAYING FOR ALL THOSE OTHER PEOPLE WHO HAVE GONE UP ABOVE!!KEEP ON JAMMIN MY BROTHER.LOVE YOU ALWAYS,YOUR BROTHER VIC

Ken Anderson

April 11, 2008

I have known Eddy since high school, graduating together and although I have not seen him for many years, the memory that sticks with me the most is the time Eddy and Linda, Linda's sister Robin and I went Christmas caroling acappela on Christmas eve in 1979, walking around town and appartment complexes to spread Christmas cheer. I think it was Eddy's idea!
Rest in peace Eddy.

Michael Hurwitz

April 10, 2008

My condolences go out to the Martinez family.

I knew Eddy from our time together at LMC in Pittsburg in the 70's. He was a great musician and a a kind soul.

R.I.P. my old friend.

Patrick Dorn

April 9, 2008

One of the nicest guys and such a sensitive artist. I first met Ed when he was playing in Randy Edwards garage years ago.. We eventually taught for a brief time at Gills' Music on 4th street and would cross paths through out the years.. The last time we spent time together was an Oscar party for Mike Semanick. Ed and I sat down and chatted for hrs. God Bless the Martinez family. We've all lost a good friend and a great musician.

Nicole White

April 8, 2008

I'm so sorry for your loss to the Martinez family. Eddie was a very caring and good person. I remember him playing at Vinnie's, being very happy. He loved his family very much. He will be deeply missed by many.

Linda Lopez

April 8, 2008

I hope you, Eddy's family and friends, will be able to hear his music and feel close to him until Eternity. I knew of Eddy indirectly through extended family. I am so sorry for your loss but grateful for Heaven's gain.

Joe & Martha Magner

April 8, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Eddy's family and friends. We will always remember the great times we had with Eddy at our home after playing at the Boathouse. He will be missed.

Rest in Peace Eddie

GT and Richan Lyons

April 8, 2008

A truely great guitar player and musician. So tragic, but we were lucky to have him perform for us for as long as he did.

Michelle Adams

April 8, 2008

Michael and Linda...... I know how you are feeling after recently dealing with a loss myself. May your hearts be filled with warmth and fond memories of a wonderful father and man! I love you and you will be in my prayers.

Don Hays

April 8, 2008

I am so saddened by the passing of Eddy. I've known Eddy for over 30 years and I will always have great memories of Eddy and how he would have to show me the latest riff or song that he had learned on the guitar. Everything he played was flawless...such an awesome musician and friend. I remember when he started teaching at Gill's when Gill's was located on 6th Street in Antioch. I will miss his laughter and his spirit.

Dana Adams

April 7, 2008

Michael and Linda, I am sorry to hear about Eddy and I just wanted both of you to know I am thinking of you during this difficult time. Always remember Eddy has left behind a thousand moments that will live in your hearts forever. All of us who knew him will remember what a wonderful person he was. God bless you and all of Eddy's family.

Carlos Santana

April 7, 2008

Rest in Peace, my brother, my friend.

Sarah (Roberts) Jacobson

April 7, 2008

I recall Eddy from AHS, class of '73. What a gifted musician, and sweet soul. My deepest condolences to his family and friends for this terrible loss. When I remember Eddy, I think of him with guitar in hand-and the fact that he could always find something to laugh about.
May the memories of all who loved him be a comfort.

Christina

April 7, 2008

Sorry for your loss of Eddie that is a very tragic death. I remember Eddie from when I was working at Webb's Music in Antioch. He would always stop in and visit, Eddie was a very sweet man and will be Deeply missed! Again sorry for your loss my heart goes out to you!

Tracy D

April 7, 2008

I met Eddy a while back while I was working at No Name Pizza. Eddy had a way of touching people with his music, his smile and his truly genuine heart. Rest in Peace Eddy. I am sure there are some serious jam sessions going on behind behind the Pearly Gates right about now.
Rock on dude!

joan row

April 7, 2008

He sure seemed to be a talented and well loved musician and father.
God Bless him, his loved ones and keep the music alive.

Anonymous

April 7, 2008

Eddie was a wonderful man whom I feel very luck to have had in my life. he touched the hearts of many. My condolences to the family.

Margie Castro

April 7, 2008

Although I do not know you, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Martinez. My heart goes out to you all in this time of unimaginable grief. My brothers, my sister and I were introduced to music by our parents at a very early age also and we have also been gifted with the talent and appreciation of music. My brothers are self taught, exceptionally talented musicians, which is probably the reason Mr. Martinez' death touched my heartstrings. I can only pray that you can take comfort in knowing that he is in a better place, playing in his guitar with the angels. May he rest in peace and my God Bless you all.

Joan Lipa (Briney)

April 7, 2008

My heartfelt sympathy go out to the family Eddy left behind. As a child I grew up with Eddy and his family as good friends. It is hard to believe he left this earth so soon. But, God has a plan for all of us, and we will all be with Eddy at some time. Eddy was just called home and had his burdens lifted before the rest of us, with his spirit now able to fly free.

Eddy Martinez - July 1, 1955 - March 28, 2008

April 6, 2008

Eddy Martinez - Rest in Peace

April 6, 2008

gifted musician and father, Eddy Martinez

April 6, 2008

Bret Bloomfield

April 5, 2008

Victor, My thoughts are with you and your family. I was shocked to hear of Eddy's passing. Eddy was a great musician but most of all a wonderful person to be around. I think about Eddy and I playing together with Shane, Jeff Gill and Jeff Chadwick in our younger days. What a great time we all had. One of the first and best Bands I ever played with. I was lucky and honored to have played with such a great musician. Eddy will be remembered forever by many friends. My heart and love go out to you and your family.

Your friend

Pat

April 4, 2008

Hey Eddie, I wish I could of met you when you called to have that shot or 4 with ya' at Celia's to celebrate the birth of your grand daughter. You entertained so many people over the years with your music & sence of humor. I know all that knew you will miss you very much, I know we will!! You'll be welcomed with open arms by Stevie Ray, Albert King, Freddie King, & all the other great musicians who left this earth before you. Get in line to play in the big jam session in the sky!!! Keep your chops sharp Eddie, we'll all see you again!!! RIP All the best to the Martinez Family.

ROBYN

April 4, 2008

EDDY WAS A GREAT GUY. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY. I KNEW HIM WHEN I WAS A KID AND GREW UP WITH HIS DAUGHTER. HE WILL BE MISSED DEARLY!

richard segovia

April 4, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends. We loved Eddy and grief his loss.
Puro Bandido

Richard Segovia

April 4, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Noah

April 3, 2008

I had the privledge of knowing Eddy for many years. He was one of the best people I have ever met. Not only was he a fantastic musician, but a fantastic person as well! His smile was so amazing, like his heart! He will be missed!

April 3, 2008

I will remember Eddie as a sweet and gentle man with a great sense of humor. He was a gifted musician and he shared that gift with all of us. He was a spiritual man who was on a spiritual journey. We loved to talk about the mysteries of the unknown. I had many interesting discussions with Eddie and I will always miss those times. My sympathies to all of his family. Robin Macias

Rich Bandoni

April 2, 2008

I was privileged to have known Eddy over the past 25 years. I respected him as a great musician and, human being. I was proud to have him as a true friend. He will be missed by all who knew him...may you rest in peace, my friend Eddy....

anonymous

April 2, 2008

Eddie was an amazing person. He will be missed by all of the people that knew him. He had a heart of gold. He was always there for anyone who needed help. He was smart, talented and loved. He's in Heaven jamming with some of the great musicians right now!

Sal Belleci

April 2, 2008

My heart goes out to Eddy's family and friends.
Eddy, thanks for turning me on to the guitar. I'm still playing. You will be in my heart always.

ed sanchez

April 2, 2008

I will miss you at JamNite. I will miss seeing you around Vinnie's & Concord. I will miss wondering where you are and how you're doing aloud with other players. Now we will tell stories of Eddy Martinez; remember when .....? Now we will say we knew you when. Now your myth begins. But not to worry about grieving too long. A lot of us will be seeing you soon. You just left us a little too early.

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