Rita Martinez

Rita Martinez passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. She was a caring mother, cherished sister, and a lifelong lover of the sea. Her connection to the ocean ran so deep, she named her only daughter, Lisa La Mar - a tribute to the waters that brought her peace and inspiration.

Like her father, Rita possessed a wandering spirit that led her to California, where she found solace from the ocean. The sea became her place of reflection and she often spoke of the sea's vast endlessness, a place without beginning or end. This to her, echoed the very nature of God: infinite and eternal.

Rita lived with an immeasurable strength and taught those around her to face life with courage.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa La Mar Tapia; her grandchildren, Paul Tapia and William Tapia; and her sisters, Gertrude Padilla and Dolores Remaly, along with many family members who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude. She is preceded in death by her parents, Juan Padilla and Rosario Chavez; her siblings, Damacio and Robert Dimas, Bernadette Lithgow, and Barbara Chavez; and her beloved grandson, Steven Garcia.

In keeping with her wishes, her ashes will be spread over the Pacific Ocean in California, where she once fondly called home. Although she will be returned to the sea, her presence will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

May the waves gently carry her home.