Hector Manuel Martinez, 89, of Mystic, CT, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, September 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 29, 1936, in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, Hector was the son of the late Juan Isabelo Martinez Gomez and Maria Lidia Peña Reyes Gomez. He grew up working on his family’s farm, where he developed the strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life. At the age of 18, Hector proudly joined the U.S. Army and served his country as a veteran of the Korean War.
After his service, Hector moved to New York, where he met the love of his life, Migdalia. The two were married in 1968 and shared 57 years of a deeply devoted marriage. Together, they built a family filled with love, welcoming their first daughter, Grace in 1970, followed by their second daughter, Gricel in 1977. His daughters were his greatest joy and the center of his world. To them, he was “Daddy and/or Papi,” the best dad anyone could ask for — loving, protective, supportive, and always their biggest cheerleader. His bond with his daughters was unbreakable, and he made sure every day that they knew how deeply he loved them.
Hector’s greatest love, however, was his wife, Migdalia. To him, she was “Tata,” and to her, he was “Tito.” They were inseparable and truly each other’s world. Whether shopping together, going for drives, or simply enjoying each other’s company, they were happiest side by side. Their love was constant, enduring, and an inspiration to everyone who knew them.
Hector worked tirelessly to provide for his family, holding many jobs over the years. He spent 22 years at Electric Boat before retiring, and also drove buses for Groton Public Schools, where he was fondly remembered by the children who adored him. A man of many interests, he enjoyed working on cars — his Corvette being his pride and joy — and caring for his house and yard. He had a deep love for animals and shared a special bond with his best friend, Ricky, a Chihuahua who rarely left his side. Ricky brought him comfort, joy, and companionship every day, and the two were inseparable. He also raised a goose and a duck, Goosie and Pavito, who lived nearly 30 years.
In 2000, Hector became an amazing grandfather to Alexander who brought him immeasurable happiness. To Alex, he was lovingly known as “Papa.” Hector was a very proud and devoted grandfather, always ready with humor, wisdom, and life lessons. He shared with Alex his passion for cars, sparking a love that bonded them even more deeply. Alex was his second greatest joy in life, the son he didn’t have, the best friend who kept him young, and to Alex, Hector was simply the best Papa anyone could have because he was so caring, fun, and always there with love and guidance.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother José Edgardo Martinez, sisters Ruth Agrinzones, Lydia Martinez, Iris Sonia Martinez, Juana Martinez and his beloved dog Ricky.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Migdalia Martinez, his daughters Grace Martinez (and her partner Stephen Roth) and Gricel Martinez, and his grandson Alexander Martinez Sanchez (and his partner Mercedes Tatro and “the three little ladies”). He also leaves behind his brother José Antonio Martinez, many nieces, nephews and cousins, and his cherished “fur grandkids” Toby, Snoopy, Peanut, Sally, and Violet.
Hector will be remembered for his love of family, his humor, his hardworking spirit, and the lessons he shared with all who knew him. His presence will be deeply missed but his legacy will live on in the lives of his loved ones.
The family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic on Friday, September 12, from 11:00am to 1:00pm A Service will be held at the funeral home at 1:00pm Burial with full military honors will follow in Elm Grove Cemetery, Mystic.
The family welcomes flowers, which may be sent to Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic, CT 06355. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may also be made to the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in Hector’s memory.