Lifelong Port Isabel resident Israel G. Martinez, 80, went peacefully in his home to his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 9, 2015. Born in Port Isabel on July 14, 1934. Martinez leaves behind his wife of 57 years Josefina (Solis) Martinez; one daughter Leticia (Jeff) Keplinger of Laguna Vista; three sons, Jose Martinez of Laguna Vista, Victor Martinez of Brownsville, and Leo (Diana) Martinez of Humble; three brothers, Casimiro Mares Martinez, Pablo Martinez, and Juan (Carmen) Martinez, all of Port Isabel; 11 grandchildren, Victor Martinez, Jr., Justin Keplinger, Michael Keplinger, Jon Eric Martinez, Anthony Martinez, Joseph Martinez, Manuel Martinez, Letisha Martinez, Cristina Martinez, Leo Martinez, Jr., and Brett Martinez; four great-grandchildren; numerous nephews; and many brothers and sisters of faith. He was preceded in death by his parents Guadalupe and Virginia Martinez, a son Israel Martinez, Jr., two daughters Maria Del Carmen Martinez and Flora Lilia Martinez, and four brothers Elias Martinez, Isidro Martinez, Guadalupe Martinez and Jose Martinez. One of seven brothers, Israel made his living in the shrimping industry, owning and operating at one time five shrimp boats. His tireless effort and hard work ethic continued when his shrimping days were over as he busied himself sewing shrimp nets and always remodeling or painting his home. He was often seen outside his home mowing the yard, gardening, and putting up a beautiful Christmas light display during the holidays. Martinez and his wife also went into the restaurant business in 1989. First opening Fina's in Los Fresnos, which later became Mexiquito in Port Isabel. His wife Fina still continues to operate the family-owned restaurant today. A born-again Christian, Martinez gave his life to God and his family and was forever spreading the word of the Lord and praying for whomever needed a prayer. He will be sorely missed by all his family and friends. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 12, 2015 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Prayer Services to begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Lighthouse Assembly of God Church, 110 Port Road in Port Isabel. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday January 13, 2015 at the Lighthouse Assembly of God Church with Pastor Steven Hyde officiating. Interment will follow to Port Isabel City Cemetery. You may sign the online guestbook and sent words of comfort or sympathy cards to the family of Israel Martinez at www.thomaegarza.com Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Home, 395 South Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas 956-399-1331