James "Jim" A. Martinez, 64, of Grand Island, passed away December 27, 2016 at his home in La Vista, NE. A Memorial Mass will be 10:00 AM Saturday, December 31, 2016 at St. Mary's Cathedral. Father Richard Piontkowski will officiate.  Wake service will be at 7:00 PM Friday at Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to: Your Team Cancer Foundation: 17607 Gold Plaza, Omaha, NE 68130.

Jim was born on November 6, 1952 in Grand Island to Carmel and Helen (Cabrera) Martinez. He grew up in Grand Island and attended Grand Island Public Schools. He entered the United States Marines on February 8, 1971, and was honorably discharged on April 5, 1974.

In 1973, he was united in marriage to Rita Munoz. After which the couple lived in Grand Island, and he worked for the railroad in various positions for almost 30 years. Jim was a member of the VFW, YMCA, and St. Mary's Cathedral. He enjoyed working outside doing yard work, gardening, and mowing, walking, riding bike, and fishing. One of his greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren's activities. Jim also loved watching Husker football.

Jim is survived by wife: Rita of Grand Island; children: Jessica (Mason) Martinez Wood of La Vista, NE, Carmel (Stephanie) Martinez of La Vista, NE; grandchildren: Augustine, Chandan, Cordell Martinez, Jennings Wood, Lucas Bullock, Cecilia Martinez; siblings: Carmelita (Chris) Perales, Frank (Donita) Martinez, Mario (Tommie) Martinez, and Pam Martinez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother: Russell Martinez.