Roman Rivera-Martinez

Roman Martinez, 67, of Wilmington was granted his angel wings on August 23, 2017. He was born in Mariana Humacao, Puerto Rico on August 9th, 1950 to the late Julio and Fundadora Martinez.

Roman retired from Sears after working for more than 35 years as an HVAC technician. He was a very hard-working man of many talents; fondly regarded as a genius who was more than capable of fixing anything. A wonderful man with a heart of gold, Roman lived an active life and enjoyed his garden, fishing, riding his motorcycle and always had a sincere passion for helping others.

A longtime parishioner of Saint Paul’s Catholic Church in Wilmington, he was devoted to his faith and shared his amazing musical talent, playing guitar in the church choir.

Roman is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Adelaida Martinez and their four children: Idalia Martinez; Roberto “Tito” Martinez and his wife, Debby; Elisa Arno and her husband, Tony; and Diana Martinez. “Pop” will be greatly missed by his seven beautiful grandchildren: Kaylana, Brianna, Sarina, Mikayla, Julian, Lizzy and Pax. His memory will forever live in the hearts of all his loving family here and in Puerto Rico as well as the many friends and those whose hearts he touched with his humble smile, his caring nature, sense of humor, gifted talents and his music. Pop has earned his wings and has flown to be in a better place but will live forever in all of us until we meet again.

The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, concern and kindness shown to them during this most difficult time. The family also wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Seasons Hospice Care for their wonderful compassion, care and love. As Pop would say, May God Bless You.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday August 28, 2017 at 10:30 am at St. Paul's  Catholic Church, 4th and Jackson Sts. Wilmington, where family and friends may call after 9:30 am.  Interment will follow Mass in Cathedral Cemetery.