Larry D. Martinez
April 28, 1951 - September 4, 2026
Larry D. Martinez, a proud Marine, Purple Heart recipient, Vietnam veteran, and retired California Highway Patrol officer, passed away on September 4, 2026, in Modesto, California. He was 75 years old. A resident of Los Banos, California, Larry was born on April 28, 1951, in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Jose Ben Martinez and Virginia Schmehl.
Larry served his country with distinction in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart. He was a true hero and survivor who lived with Parkinson's disease with courage and strength.
Following his military service, Larry continued a life of service through his career with the California Highway Patrol, from which he later retired.
Larry found joy in the simple things - fishing, camping, and taking long drives with his family. Above all, Larry lived for his family. They were the center of his life and his greatest source of pride and happiness.
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Wai Martinez; his four daughters, Susan Jones (Chris), Michelle Martinez, Mai Martinez (Dominic), and Kim Martinez (Servando); his seven grandchildren, Ariella (Ary) Martinez, Adrian (AJ) Mojica, Leila Martinez, Christopher Mojica, Chloe Fragoso, Landen Martinez, and Cervando Miranda; and his brothers, David Martinez and Ruben Martinez.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Jose B. Martinez and Virginia Schmehl.
Larry will be remembered for his quiet strength, his service to his country and community, and above all, his unwavering love and devotion to his family. He was a son, a brother, a loving husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, friend and a true hero. His love, strength, and legacy will live on through his family and all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Funeral Services -- Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Viewing & Service - 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Whitehurst Funeral Chapel
1840 Center Ave
Los Banos, CA 93635
Burial - 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
San Joaquin National Cemetery
32053 McCabe Rd
Santa Nella, CA 95322
Reception
Delta Party Barn
13816 Bisignani Rd
Los Banos, CA 93635
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.

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