Elmo “Jake” Martinez, age 74 of Cushing, passed away on November 11, 2008 at his home in Cushing. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 17, 2008 at the Palmer Marler Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will held 2:00 p.m., Monday at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, Oklahoma. Reverend Jim Franklin will officiate.
Elmo was born on August 22, 1934 in Nacogdoches, Texas to Pete and Dona (Acousta) Martinez. He grew up and attended school in Nacogdoches. Elmo attended college at O.S.U. Elmo “Jake” retired from the U.S. Navy on June 19, 1973 after serving our country for 20 years. While serving his country, he served on the USS Toledo; USS Los Angeles; USS Monticello. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal; Navy Unit Commendation, Vietnam service medal (with bronze star); republic Vietnam campaign medal; 4th good conduct award; Vietnam armed forces Meritorious Unit Commendation (Gallantry).
Elmo married Kathryn Louise Franklin on December 19, 1958 in Porterville, California. Elmo “Jake” was an avid golfer and was golfing pro at the Drumright Golf Course for several years. He also enjoyed camping and spending time with his family in numerous settings. He loved his family and they loved him.
Survivors include his wife of almost 50 years Kathryn Louise Martinez, son James Elmo Martinez and wife Wendy of Decatur, IL, daughters Anita Kay Smith and husband Mick of Sand Springs, Kimberly Ann Halford and husband Calvin of
Stroud, grandchildren Zachary and Will Cook, Chrystal Yoas, Jeremy Halford, Jamie Cloud and Brooks Martinez, great grandchildren Bentlie and Peyton Cook, Eric and Jill Cook and Calynn Yous, sisters Elma Harvey of Nacogdoches, TX; Freddie Prickett of Nacogdoches, TX; Vernice Gerhing, Trafford, Pa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Johnnie Martinez; his brother Mack Martinez; his sister Katie Halstead.
Arrangements are entrusted to Palmer Marler Funeral Home, Cushing.
Condolences, video and online guest book are available at www.palmarlerfh.com.
