Ricardo Martinez

My name is Ricky Martinez, the eldest son of the Martinez family, and now the oldest man in the house. Just this last month I lost my father after a hard and rigorous fight with pancreatic cancer just nine months after the diagnosis. It had all happened faster than anyone would've expected. This time last year we were going out to Starbucks for our usual vibes and talking about upcoming movies. Every day I remember him while doing everyday activities and still find it hard to wonder about what could have been. But I know I am not the only one feeling the hole that my dad has left.

Ricardo Martinez was not only a great father, but he was also a great friend, son, teacher, and coach. He was also an amazing husband and best friend to our mother. He had many nicknames and many stories to share every day. No matter where we went, he knew somebody. Or somebody knew him, and sometimes he would ask us later if we knew who that was. A funny, charismatic man with a nurturing soul has no business being taken away as early as he did and I understand many, many of us are feeling the same pain.

I know my father touched the lives of many. He was always an advocate for his students and made it his mission to make science fun. He also was dedicated to creating a safe space for all of his students and many times he would allow his students to hang out in his room playing games and telling stories because he just knew they needed that safe space. Our dad was a science nerd to the core and he made it cool. Sports were a great love for our dad and they will continue to be a big part of our family. He was an amazing coach always looking to bring out the best in each of his athletes. He truly believed that if a student gave it his all he would achieve a level of success.

Many of you have reached out to us to ask about how you can help so I have started this GoFundMe to help our family cover the expenses for our father's funeral and burial. Our mother has been devasted by the loss of her beloved husband and her best friend. She was by our father's side throughout every chemo and radiation treatment. And she was by his side every day he was in the hospital. She was his greatest comfort throughout his battle. She is now left with the challenge of navigating our lives without our father which isn't going to be easy.

We appreciate any and all support to help us provide our father, Mr. Eastlake, with his final resting place.