Jose M Martinez

Jose M. Martinez, 79, of Florham Park, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on June 29, 2024.

José María Martínez Perales was born in Andújar, Jaén,  Spain. He was the second born of 6 siblings. He had an incredible upbringing along with his parents, siblings, grandparents and extended family. At the young age of 17 he moved to Barcelona with the vision of building a greater life for his recently widowed mother and all of his siblings. It was there in Barcelona that he met the love of his life, Milagros Taboada while she was on vacation visiting from the US. They quickly fell in love and he left his entire life behind to immigrate to Newark, NJ to be with her. 

After they were married Jose had a vision of being an entrepreneur and home owner. He never stopped working, sometimes 2 to 3 jobs to pursue his dreams. Jose and Milagros were the proud owners of El Rincón de España in Newark for over 25 years. Jose was also co-owner of El Escorial Bar for several years. 

After Milagros took over “La tienda” full time, Jose pursued a career with Spectraserv where he proudly worked supporting the organization for over 20 years. 

Jose was an extremely intelligent man who loved literature, culture, history, and mathematics. He greatly missed his native country and wanted to help continue educating the children of immigrants about their culture and roots. His passion for education led him to serve as the president of the parent’s association for the Consulate of Spain, Ministerio de Educación Exterior program for the children of Spaniard immigrants in NJ. 

After Jose retired his favorite job quickly became being the best grandpa “Avi” to his 5 beautiful grandchildren. He loved living in Florham Park and spending his summers in Fuengirola drinking una Caña bien fría and eating tapas with his wife, family and great friends on the beautiful beach of the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. 

Jose’s message to everyone who knew him was to live in the moment and cherish family and friends. Known for his photographic memory, the ability to speak 7 languages and captivating stories, he left a lasting impression on all, fueled by his passion for life.

Beloved husband of 51 years to Milagros (Taboada) Martinez.  Devoted father of Monica Martinez Milan, her husband Mark, Erica Wendroff and her husband Jon.  Cherished grandfather of Logan and London, Arianna, Josh and Emma.  Dear brother of Encarni Martinez and Paco Martinez.  Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Jose was pre-deceased by his parents Fernando and Ana Martinez, and his siblings Antonio, Cristobal and Ana Martinez.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday from 9am-11:15am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Vincent Martyr Church in Madison at 12pm. 

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