New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
Wilfred A Martinez
August 24, 2022
Wilfred A Martinez,
Ph.D., died suddenly and unexpectedly in New York City on August 24, 2022. He had a good last day; working a little, visiting his grandchildren, enjoying one of his favorite meals, and telling his wife how happy he was.
Will emigrated with his family to the United States from Cuba at the age of seven. He played varsity sports, learning golf after taking a job as a caddie at a Rochester country club.
With a Ph.D. in Ceramic Engineering from Rutgers University, he began working in Pfizer’s materials science division and was awarded a U.S. patent for the design of lightweight materials that could withstand high temperatures. Using Spanish as a base, he was able to understand a host of languages and navigate global business with ease. As he climbed the corporate ladder, Will took roles of increasing responsibility with Minerals Technologies (a Pfizer offshoot), Harbison Walker, Laticrete Intl, Schweitzer-Mauduit, and finished his working career as President and CEO of
Five Star Products, Inc.
He was predeceased by his parents, Alberto and Haydee Leiseca Martinez; his daughter and unborn grandson, Natalia and Grayson Martinez; and his nephew, Mark V Martinez.
Survivors include his wife, Joanna Martinez; his daughter. Christina Reichelt and her husband. Brian; his son, William and his wife, Devra; his son, Scott; and four grandchildren who affectionately called him “Doc”, Olivia and Wyatt Reichelt, and Ella Rose and Westin Martinez. He is also survived by his sister ,Maria Martinez Ryan and her husband, Robert; a brother; his niece, Stefanie Martinez; and six grandnieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 10, 11 am, at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Woodbridge, CT. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Wilfred A Martinez, Ph.D. Student Fund at Rutgers School of Engineering, or to McQuaid Jesuit High School.