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Eladio Martinez Laza was born on December 22, 1951 in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico. He entered eternal rest surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, March 6, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 73. Eladio, known as “Marcos” and “Macho” to family and friends, was a proud U.S. Veteran and served in the United States Army for nearly 13 years. His service was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country, a value he carried with him throughout his life. Eladio wore many hats and played many roles in his life, all in which he did with excellence and pride. He was a beloved son and brother, and also an adored husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Eladio was the kind of person you’d only wish there were thousands more of. He was known for countless qualities that contributed to him being so deeply loved by many. He was known for his loud and strong voice and demeanor, and he ironically had a way of making people feel safe, loved, and welcomed. He was known for his cooking, especially his popularly requested lechon and morcillas, being the jokester and life of the party, his salsa dance moves and storytelling, but even more so, he was known for always being there for others in a time of need no matter how big or small, no matter the time of day, and no matter if he knew you for 20 years or 20 minutes. Eladio was the definition of love, joy, selflessness, and integrity. His heart and soul were pure gold and one of a kind. Eladio was a no-fuss kind of man and enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved watching basketball, boxing, and baseball, as well as playing a good game of dominoes while enjoying a cold Miller Lite. He loved riding his Harley Davidson and being an original member of “The Jibaros Motorcycle Club,” and he loved a good get together and party. Eladio’s family and friends were his greatest joy, and he leaves behind countless cherished memories with his loved ones. Eladio is preceded in death by his father Candido Martinez and his mother Gloria Martinez. He is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Nereida Cruz. Eladio will be dearly missed by his children; his son Mark Martinez and his wife Erica, his son Gary Martinez and his wife Alexis, his daughter Bianca Martinez, and his daughter Jessica Martinez; his siblings Carmin Martinez, Ricardo Martinez, Victor Arroyo Laza, Marta Arroyo Laza, Candido Martinez, and Horacio Martinez; his grandchildren Gisela Martinez, Mark Martinez, Matthew Martinez, Gary Martinez II, Mason Martinez, Nolan Blokkum and Ava Blokkum, along with numerous aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and extended family. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all family and friends for their love, care, and support during his final days. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. Committal Service with Military Honors to follow at 2:15 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

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Eladio Martinez Laza

December 22, 1951 - March 6, 2025