Daniel C. Martinez

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved Daniel C. Martinez, who peacefully left this world on April 8, 2025, in Laredo, Texas. He was 90 years old.

Daniel was born on October 18, 1934, in Laredo, Texas, to the late Gilberto and Maria Caballero Martinez. He was raised in both Laredo and the small community of Catarina, Texas—places that deeply shaped the man he would become.

In June 1955, Daniel answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He proudly served as a military tank driver, and his time in service took him across the world, where he witnessed the aftermath of the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in June 1958, returning home with a deepened sense of pride and purpose.

Upon his return to South Texas, Daniel met Rosa Cabrera, and the two formed a meaningful connection. They were married on July 29, 1961, and began their life together in Pearsall, Rosa’s hometown. They built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

While in Pearsall, Daniel worked at the Kemper Grocery Store for over 15 years, serving as both manager and delivery man for local residents. His dedication and friendly personality allowed him to forge lifelong friendships throughout the community. In 1979, Daniel joined Mrs. Baird’s Bakeries Company, where he worked as a route salesman and bookkeeper for over 20 years, serving the communities of Pearsall, Dilley, and Cotulla, Texas.

In his leisure time, Daniel was an avid sports aficionado who loved attending local baseball, basketball, and football games. He was a diehard fan of the Dallas Cowboys, the UT Longhorns, and the San Antonio Spurs. He also enjoyed fishing, exercising, and taking trips to Las Vegas and Kickapoo Casino. A man of many talents, Daniel found joy in playing his guitar and singing heartfelt renditions of boleros, rancheras, and country music.

After Rosa was called to be with the Lord in 2001, Daniel moved back to Laredo to be near his daughter. Even in his later years, he remained a man of deep integrity—quietly proud, endlessly kind, and always willing to lend a hand. He carried himself with humility, yet his pride in having served his country never wavered.

Daniel leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and strength. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Rosa Cabrera Martinez; his parents, Gilberto and Maria Caballero de Martinez; siblings: Alejandro, Victor, Gilberto Jr., Porfirio, Juanita, Francisca, Rosario, and Josefina; and beloved family members: Irma Rico, Irene Uriegas, Jimmy Cabrera, and Adrienne A. Gonzalez.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his daughter, Diana Rosa Martinez; brothers, José and Domingo; sisters, Melva and María de Jesús; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren and other beloved relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hillside Funerals and Cremations, where a Rosary will be recited at 5:30 p.m., led by Rev. Deacon Leonardo Aguillon.

The funeral procession will depart at 10:30 a.m. from the funeral chapel to Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Interment with Military Honors will take place immediately following the Mass. Honors will be rendered by American Legion Post 59 and the United States Army Honor Guard.

Pallbearers will be: Jose Martinez, Michael Martinez, Victor Cabrera, David Cabrera, Martin Ramos, Robert Juarez, Matthew Juarez, and Israel Castilla.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Alejandro Martinez Jr., Johnny Martinez, Ruben Cabrera, Rene J. Rico, Rodolfo Rico, David Cabrera Jr., Erik Cabrera, and Jesus A. Estrada.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hillside Funerals & Cremations; 310 W. Hillside Rd.; Laredo, TX 78041; 956.724.6060