Joe P. Martinez

Joe P. "Jinx" Martinez, 89, of Topeka, died October 8, 2012 at Plaza West Health Care Center. He was born in Topeka, Kansas on November 10, 1922 the son of Manuel and Biviana (Puente) Martinez. Joe was one of the founders of Hawkins Optical Laboratories and was a Layout Man until his retirement around 1990. He was recognized for his accomplishments in several capacities while at Hawkins. He will be remembered as a skilled pool play who could dominate the table and was also an avid bowler. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Joe married Martina Martinez in Topeka, Kansas in 1960. She predeceased him on June 20, 1988. He is survived by his son, Daniel Martinez and wife Laurie of Topeka, two grandchildren, Michael Wilson and Elizabeth Cathcard, and two great granddaughters, Alexis Cathcard and Keyonna Wilson. He is also survived by a sister, Jane Corona Rangel of Topeka. He was preceded in death by a brother James, and two sisters, Antonia Lopez and Sabina Terry. Joe will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Wednesday after 2:00 p.m. where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. followed by a Parish Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603. Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.