Rose Marie Martin

MARTIN, Rose Marie

Entered her peaceful rest at the age of 82 on January 20, 2005. Most knew her as Rose Marie but she was born Rosario Estella Robles in Hermissillo, Mexico October 1, 1922. Her lifelong friends and many family members knew her as "Stella" or "Chayo". Rose Marie immigrated to America in the 1920's with her parents, Antonio Murrilo and Margarita Quijada Robles and eight brothers and sisters. She was the youngest of the family. One of the proudest moments of her life was becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1954. She changed her name to Rose Marie at that time. Despite the many physical and economic hardships of her youth, Rose Marie maintained a positive, hopeful outlook on life that profoundly effected those around her. She saw hidden beauties in nature and people that inspired others to take a second look. Her cheerful voice was a beacon to her presence in a room. She was fearless in approaching strangers with a question or a positive comment, leaving them with a better day. Rose Marie was a remarkably patient woman. She lived the adage "that good things come to those who wait". Her reward was an adoring husband of 34 years, Leo "Ray" Martin. Following retirement, Ray and Rose Marie enjoyed RV traveling within the western states and a few trips abroad. She loved gold panning and would express her excitement if she "discovered" the tiniest color of gold in her pan. Her daughter Gloria De Robles, commented that mother was "an amazing woman" when she discovered a children's book Rose has been saving for her now 32 year old grandson Brian. It was his favorite as a child and Rose knew that someday he would enjoy the memory. "... you were always so happy every time I read it" was within the inscription. The happiness of her family and friends worked as fuel for Rose Marie, but she found her own paths to happiness through spirituality, quietly reading novels, spending evenings at home with Ray, "dressing to the nines", and eating good food. As Rose grew older she never succumbed to the cynicism and negative thinking that besets many. To the contrary, she grew more appreciative of all that was life. Rose Marie is survived by her husband, Ray; daughter, Gloria De Robles; sons, David Brown, Joel Martin, and Mike Martin; grandchildren, Kimberly Pantoja, Brian Tibbs, and Alexia Moore; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Christopher Pantoja, Travis, Dani, and Tyler Tibbs, Hannah and Holly Martin, and Aiyana Moore. Friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, January 28th from 5:00 until 7:00pm and a funeral service on Sat., Jan. 29th at 11:00am at Green Valley Mortuary Folsom Chapel, 610 Coloma Street, Folsom. Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity, the Red Cross, or the charity of donor's choice.