Ernesto P. Martinez
Ernesto P. Martinez (Ernie) age 60, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 6, 2018 in Merced, CA. He was born June 16, 1957 in French Camp, California to Pedro and Maria Martinez. He was a 1975 Porterville High School graduate where he wrestled and played football. He lived in Merced, CA for the past three years was employed by O’keeffes Inc/safti FIRST for Shipping and Receiving. Ernie never feared any type of work regardless of how difficult the job was. He held many jobs in his lifetime and worked several years for Jostens as a Printer. He’s also skilled as a Journeyman Mechanic, Welder and Heavy Equipment Operator. Ernie truly lived his life to the fullest and had no regrets. He enjoyed chatting with his friends and family and loved having a good time. He enjoyed the world of sports and was a true dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan, but his greatest enjoyment came from cheering on his nieces and nephews ballgames on the sides. He also loved nature and enjoyed camping and had the opportunity to take several camping trips with his friend. He has a green thumb and he was one of the only people we knew could be so successful in growing his own vegetables. Ernie lived in Oceanside for several years and had a special love for the beach. In fact, during the last few years of his life he was drawn to the “Footprints in the Sand” poem which reminded him of his own journey in life. Ernie enjoyed his life and was not afraid to battle his fights. Although Ernie’s battle for life ended, his journey will continue in the hands of God. Ernie will be deeply missed by his family, friend and relatives. Ernie is survived by his sister Silvia (Jose) Nacianceno of Porterville, his brothers Atilano (Jane) Martinez of Porterville and Pedro (Reyva) Martinez of Dinuba. He also leaves nieces and nephews Andres and Gustavo Nacianceno, Michelle (Chris) Enriquez, Jennifer (Cory) Schoonover, Janice (Joey) Rivera, Melissa, Zack, Colton and Kristen Martinez. Great nephews and nieces Cienna and Ethan Enriquez, Ryleigh, Jackson and Chase Schoonover, Serenity and Veronica Martinez. He was preceded in death by his parents Pedro and Maria.
A viewing will take place at Porterville Funeral & Cremation Center, 765 W. Henderson Ave, Porterville on January 18, 2018 from 2-8 pm. The Holy Rosary will commence at 6:00 pm the same day. A Mass will be held at St. Anne’s Church, 378 N. F. Street, Porterville on January 19, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. Following the Mass, we ask friends and relatives to join our family at the Funeral Home’s Hall to share with us a piece of Ernie’s journey in life. To sign Ernie's register book, please log into www. portervillefuneral.com, for additional information please contact Porterville Funeral and Cremation Center at 559-784-6485, 765 W. Henderson Avenue, Porterville, CA