Alfred "Freddie" Martinez

Alfred Freddie Martinez, 80, of Topeka, KS, passed away Friday, April 21, 2023, at the House at Midland Care. He was born August 5, 1942, in Dodge City, KS, the son of Manuel and Dora (Briseño) Martinez.

Shortly after graduating from Dodge City High School, Freddie joined the US Navy, serving 6 years during the Vietnam War. He worked at ESSEX as a wire extruder for many years.

Freddie married Mary Heiland on August 7, 1971, in Dodge City. She preceded him in death on January 28, 2015. Survivors include three children, Alfredo Martinez, New Jersey; Fritz Martinez, Topeka, KS; and Monique (Chris) Keith, Reading, KS; a sister, Teresa Runyan, Kansas City, KS; five grandchildren, Alexis (Chris) Kennedy, Newark, DE; Sarah Martinez, Virginia Beach, VA; Chris (Sierra) Martinez, Chesapeake, VA; Jordan Martinez, Topeka, KS and Callum Keith, Reading, KS; ten great-grandchildren. Nicholas and Liam Kennedy, Ramsi, Ronin Martinez-Russell, Rhyatt Martinez-Pinson, Madison, Marianna, and Malulani Martinez, Anthony and Vincent Martinez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Dora Martinez, and a grandson, Cale Keith.

Fred was an active member of his community as the President of the Rolling Meadows Neighborhood Association, one of the organizers of a Day Out Against Crime, was recognized in his community as a leader, and had an open door policy to anyone that needed help or advice. He loved spending time on his deck with friends and family alike. His favorite pastimes included a fire on the deck, fishing, making his handmade jewelry, feeding his fish in the pond and the birds, and patrolling the neighborhood. Fred had a lasting impact on all that met him. He will be missed.

Honoring his request, Fred was cremated. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM Saturday, May 20, 2023, at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 2700 SE Virginia Avenue, Topeka. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends starting at 9:30 AM, with a Parish Rosary being prayed at 10:30 AM, followed by the Mass at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will take place after the service. Freddie will be laid to rest with his wife at a later date in the Reading Cemetery, Reading, KS.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to be made in Freddie's memory to Midland Care Hospice, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606, or to Rolling Meadows Neighborhood Association, 2215 SE 35th, Topeka, KS 66605.