Frank Martinez

Frank Paul Martinez, 84, of Windsor Heights, Iowa, passed away at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. He was born on February 8, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, and graduated from Ondossagon High School.

Frank proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Music was a lifelong passion and an important part of his story. He loved to sing and, while in high school, was a member of a band called The Pharoahs Men. During his time in the Air Force, he had the opportunity to play with a musician who would become a member of Three Dog Night. Frank later performed with the band Two Nights and One Day, which even recorded a few 45s. His musical tastes included blues, jazz, and rock and roll.

Frank's life also included a unique connection to maritime history. He spent time working as a seaman and rode aboard the Edmund Fitzgerald weeks or months before the ship sank in the Great Lakes-an extraordinary coincidence that continued to fascinate him throughout his life.

Frank had a special place in his heart for animals and shared his life with many dogs over the years. Among them were Drum, a white Boxer puppy; an English Mastiff; and a three-legged Great Dane. His creative side extended beyond music, and he continued to enjoy writing poetry later in life.

Professionally, Frank worked in maintenance for Marsden Building Maintenance, LLC, spending 20 years in the field.

Frank is survived by his daughters, Janine Martinez and Tracci Foris; his grandchildren, Jessica Martinez, Jacob Martinez, Joshua Emery, and Joseph Martinez; and his great-grandchildren, Jesus Martinez, Audrianna Martinez-Griffin, Lincoln Melrose, Desiah Beauchamp, Alayna Nelson-Martinez, Jaden Martinez, Kaylee Martinez, Ariana Martinez, Maddison Gliover, Rae Emery, Silas Emery, and Jasmine Martinez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Paul Martinez Sr. and Madelyn Blevins-Foris, and his son, Richard L. Martinez.

Frank lived a life filled with music, creativity, interesting experiences, and a love for animals. From singing and performing to writing poetry and sharing his home with beloved dogs, he followed the things that brought him joy. His stories, his music, and the memories he created will live on through the generations of family he leaves behind.

Frank will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends.