Raymond B. Martinez; Fillmore Ranch Worker

Raymond B. Martinez, a retired ranch worker, died Friday at the Santa Paula Healthcare Center. He was 94.

Martinez was born June 15, 1905, in Mexico. He moved with his family to Fillmore the following year and has been a resident ever since.

He worked many years at the Sespe Land & Water Co. and the F. S. Warring Ranch for 40 years.

Martinez enjoyed chip carving and horticulture, particularly growing orchids and camellias. He enjoyed collecting many minerals, gems, stamps and coins. He was an avid photographer and played a saxophone for many years in a band.

He was a member and usher at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fillmore.

Martinez is survived by sons David of Martinez, Richard of San Jose and Joseph of Ventura; daughters Frances of Fillmore and Therese Touchette of Ventura; brother Cecilio Escobar; and 11 grandchildren. Martinez was preceded in death by his wife, Belen, in February 1991.

A rosary is to be recited at 7:30 tonight at St. Francis of Assisi Church, and a funeral Mass is scheduled at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Alzheimer’s Assn. of Ventura County.

Arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Bros. Stetler Mortuary, Santa Paula.