Anastacio Martinez

ANASTACIO MARTINEZ

Anastacio Martinez, Tacho to everyone who knew him, loved his coffee. Since he retired it was practically the only thing he drank. Shortly before noon on Thursday January 25, 2018, Tacho finished his last cup.

Tacho saw 76 birthdays pass, years filled with love, joy and laughter. Although loss, pain and tears were there as well, they were never something he focused on or complained about, just vague memories he used as cautionary tales to those who needed to hear them.

Though quiet and laid back, Tacho was a passionate and devoted man: A devoted employee when working, a devoted friend to those in need, a devoted brother to his siblings, a devoted father to his only son and any other child that needed his attention, a devoted husband to his wife of 44 years, even after she passed.

Born and raised in Laredo, he did broaden his horizons by travelling the world while serving in the military and driving across the country he served both on business and pleasure. No matter where he went Laredo was his home, even when he had to move away a couple of years ago to be cared for by his son. He always spoke of going back to Laredo one day, going back home to be with his family both living and those in spirit. That day has come. He stands in spirit with those who passed before him and welcomes the family he had to leave behind to say their goodbyes.

That family includes Greg Martinez, his son; Oscar Herrera, grandnephew and caretaker; Jasmine Martinez, loving granddaughter, his sisters and brother: Pera, Maria, Julia, Juana and Paco; nieces and nephews too many to name; and two little dogs that he made very fat by always sharing his food.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2018 from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, February 2, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. at San Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 1704 Sandman. All that will be attending the mass are asked to meet at the church as there will be no procession from the funeral chapel.

Cremation service will take place at a later date.