Mark Thomas Martinez

Mark Thomas Martinez, loved and cherished by his family and friends, went to his heavenly home on September 8, 2024, at the age of 65. He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, but who he has loved fiercely for 49 years, Jodi Picolo Martinez, his son Mark Thomas Martinez, Jr., his daughter Victoria Martinez Esteves (Ricky), his son Matthew Paul Martinez (Jenna), and his six grandchildren who loved their Paw Paw with all of their beautiful hearts: Molly, Charlotte, Luke, Celia, Noah, and Iris. Mark was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Martinez, his father-in-law, Joseph “Jay” Picolo Jr., and his brother-in-law, Larry Sears. He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Toledano Martinez Anson, his mother-in-law, Earline Bordelon Picolo, his brothers and sisters, Laurie Neely, Ron Martinez (Cathy), Claudia Marshel (Julia), Andrew Martinez, his sister-in-law Lori Sears, his brother-in-law Jay Picolo (Michelle), and so many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who were loved deeply by their Uncle Mark. Mark was born in New Orleans, LA, on February 5, 1959. He attended St. Raphael School, Resurrection of Our Lord School, and graduated from Abramson High School in New Orleans East in 1977. Mark retired from Hartwig Moss Insurance Agency in 2021, after working in the insurance business for nearly 40 years. He recently acquired his captain’s license and worked as a swamp tour guide at Ultimate Swamp Adventures. Mark loved being outside in his yard landscaping, building birdhouses, birdwatching, hanging out with his dog, Scout, building fires in the fire pit, and solving crossword puzzles. He loved Jazz Festin’ with cousins and friends, hosting every family birthday and holiday at his house with his kids and grandkids, going on travel adventures with Jodi, and heading down to the fishing camp in Hopedale for his weekly relaxation on the water. If we know anything, we know that Mark loved talking to people, family, friends, and strangers alike. He told a great story and listened with an open ear. We are grateful that he is in the loving arms of Jesus, even as we miss him with all of our hearts. And we remember, just like Mark’s favorite scripture states, “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 Peace, love, and togetherness. Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation and funeral services on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at L.A. Muhleisen & Son Funeral Home, 2607 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 70062. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM with a funeral mass at 12:00 PM. The burial will immediately follow the services at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

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Mark Thomas Martinez

February 5, 1959 - September 8, 2024