Albert J. Martinez

Albert “Al” James Martinez

July 26, 1942 - January 28, 2023

​Albert, also affectionately known as Al, was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. He was the third child of seven kids to Charles and Cecilia Martinez. He attended Longfellow Elementary, Washington Jr. High, and was part of East Bakersfield High School’s graduating class of 1960.

​Two years after graduating high school, he enlisted in the Air Force. For four years, he worked in the Air Police and Security Unit. He also served in the Reserves for two years. He was honorably discharged as an Airman First Class.

​Al worked for C.N. Johnston Body Works for 29 years as an autobody painter. He took pride in his work and rightfully so. He had to suddenly retire in 1995 due to a massive heart attack, but that didn’t stop him from picking up a paintbrush. He found new canvases to paint such as murals in his home or teddy bears on little stools for family just to name a few.

​For many years, he bowled for Jimmy’s Body Shop bowling team and joined a Mexican American Men’s League where he made some lifelong friendships. He was always watching sports of some kind and you would always find Albert rooting for his teams: L.A. Rams, USC Trojans, the UCLA basketball team, and the good ol’ boys in blue - the Dodgers. Al enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandchildren whether it be watching games on TV, going out to eat, taking naps on the couch, or hanging out next door at his sister’s house having a few cold ones with his compa.

​Up until Martha’s untimely death, Albert was a loving and devoted husband, an amazing dad, and a wonderful grandpa. We were blessed to have him in our lives to show us what the meaning of unconditional love is and all the memories we will forever hold dear in our hearts.

​Albert is preceded in death by his wife, Martha of 40 years; parents Charles and Cecilia (Feliz) Martinez; brothers Charles (Butch), Nick, Ervin, and Eric Martinez.

Those left to honor his memory are his children Corinne Lumabao (Brian), and Andrew Martinez (Jennifer); twin sister Alberta Gil (Joe); brother Randall Martinez; grandchildren Jaycob, Jaylene, Cecilia, and Easton. Along with many nieces, nephews, and other family members.

On behalf of our family, we would like to thank Dr. Anthony Valdez and Dr. Elsita Matthew for keeping him going all these years. To the firemen and firewoman from Station 42 for being so patient and letting us spend our last moments peacefully with our dad. To the Basham Funeral Home staff who have gone far and beyond to make this process as easy as one could. Lastly, thank you to our family and friends who werethere that fateful day and are here now, sending us prayers, words of comfort, and love. Our dad will be greatly missed and is loved beyond measure. He truly was one of a kind.