Jesus Martinez

Jesus “Jesse” Vidal Martinez died peacefully in Chicago, IL on May 24, 2018 in at the age of 83.Loving father of Isabel (Hendrik) and Vidal (Maria); cherished grandfather of Nicholas, Grace, Ava, Gianna, Lucas and Martin; longtime companion of Amparo Camba. Jesse was born on April 28, 1935 in Pinar del Río, Cuba, the green and lush tobacco growing region of the country, to Cecilia María Alvarez Braña. He was raised by a large family of many aunts and uncles and numerous cousins whom he loved dearly. He worked for many years on his family’s cattle ranch and graduated from the University of Havana with a degree in accounting. Jesse married Isabel Martinez (nee Espinosa) in 1966 and they moved to the United States some years later. After settling in Chicago, Jesse began working for Harris Bank as a computer programmer. The couple welcomed two children into their home and set about teaching them strong education and work ethics. His children remember him as a resourceful, driven, entrepreneurial and family oriented father who encouraged them to pursue their goals. Jesse dedicated himself to a number of small businesses for many years. In 2004 he met Amparo Camba with whom he enjoyed a wonderful relationship during his golden years. They traveled far and wide together and Amparo was a great support to him during his time of illness. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 30 from 3-9pm at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL. A funeral is scheduled for Thursday, May 31 at 10:00 am at St. Eugene’s Catholic Church, 7958 W. Foster Ave., Chicago, IL. He will be laid to rest at Acacia Park Cemetery, 7800 W Irving Park Rd, Norridge, IL.All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jesse’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Heifer Project International at www.heifer.org. The family would like to recognize Jesse’s oncology care team at Loyola University Hospital, especially Dr. Allen Gaynor and his primary physician, Dr. Henry Palmer of Illinois Masonic Hospital for their years of care and dedication. Jesse’s family also want to give great thanks to all of his family members and friends from Cuba, South Florida, Atlanta, Georgia to Chicago whom reached out to him regularly over the years and especially in his recent time of declined health. He loved you all so very much