Milton Martinez, Jr.

Milton Martinez, Jr.
of Des Moines, Iowa

Milton Martinez, Jr. age 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. He was born the son of Milton Martinez and Angela Galvan on April 6, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Milton attended East High School and graduated before joining the Navy at the young age of 17. Milton honorably served as a First Gunner’s Mate, completing four tours in Vietnam. He continued his dedication to service as a Logistic Assistance Representative during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Milton was a proud recipient of the Purple Heart in recognition of his bravery and sacrifice in combat, and also received the Superior Civilian Service Award for his outstanding contributions during Desert Storm. Milton was a dedicated member of American Legion Post #391 and the American Legion Riders. He was also a DAV Life Member and had been a faithful member of St. Anthony Catholic Church since the 1950s.

Milton was a man of many talents and passions. He enjoyed working with his hands and was a true jack of all trades, never one to sit still. He was known as a master carpenter and took great pride in his craft. He loved working on cars and motorcycles, always finding joy in the mechanical challenges they presented. Milton loved more than anything to surprise his wife and deeply loved his family and closest friends. He was fluent in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Filipino, Milton’s linguistic skills were impressive. He also held a 3rd-degree black belt in Taekwondo, showcasing his dedication and discipline. Milton was also known for his terrible jokes, he brought laughter to those around him always.

Milton was deeply committed to his community, volunteering at the YMCA and coaching children’s football. He had a special love for the youth community and dancing. Milton was the most loving husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, sibling, son, and son-in-law a family could ask for. His vibrant spirit and generous heart will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is lovingly survived by his wife Paula Martinez, sons Milton Martinez III, Matthew T. Martinez, and Primo C. (Taylor) Martinez, daughters Melissa A. Martinez, and Merenciana D. (Tim J. Paulus) Martinez-Paulus, 11 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Milton was preceded in death by his grandparents Preciliano and Antonia Ramirez, father Milton Martinez, and 13 brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Funeral service will begin at 10:30 a.m., Friday, October 25, 2024, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Rd., Des Moines followed by burial at Iowa Veteran Cemetery, Adel.

Milton’s family would like to give special thanks to the generous and caring staff at the VA Hospice and VA Hospital for their excellent care and wonderful support.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the VA Hospice Center in memory of Milton.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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