Venustiana G. Martinez December 30, 1926 - April 14, 2012 Venus passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on April 14, 2012 at the age of 85. Venus was born in Rio Grande, Texas and moved her family to California in 1959. She lived a full life enjoying her family and her numerous grandchildren (28), great-grandchildren (38) and great-great grandchildren (2). Her favorite pastime was her bingos and casino time at Eagle Mtn. or Lemoore. She will be fondly remembered for her homemade tortillas and Christmas tamales. She was a member of the Comite Mexicano de Beneficcencia #6, Sociedad Progresista Mexicano and Sociedad Juarez. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Jose Martinez. Her sons, Alfred Martinez (Lucy), Jose Jr. (Diane), Mauro (Gloria) and Robert (Evalina). Her daughters, Bertha Ortiz, Juanita LaBaugh, Diana Harris (Steve) and Elizabeth Padilla (Tony). She is preceded in death by her parents Benita and Mauro Garza, daughter Josephina, who passed at a very young age. Her brothers Apolonio, Sylvester, Evangel, and Amador Garza. Her sisters, Luisa Alvarez, Sylvestra Garza and Jane Garza. With grateful hearts and much appreciation, her family extends their gratitude for the caring and comfort given by her loving grandson, Jason Ortiz. He helped immensely and watched her over the past months. Also to her home aides, Gloria Martinez and Maria Escobar and much thanks to the dedicated staff at Optimal Hospice. Pallbearers will be Alfred Martinez Jr., Joshua Martinez, Nathan Ortiz, Mauro Martinez, Jr., Jake LaBaugh, Max Harris, Gabriel Hinojosa, and Bobby Martinez. Honorary Pallbearer will be Jason Ortiz. Visitation will be held at Hopson-Anspach Family Mortuary on 620 Oregon St. on Thursday, April 19, 2012 from 5 to 9 pm, with Rosary at 6 pm. A Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1515 Baker St., on Friday, April 20, 2012, followed by internment at Greenlawn Southwest Cemetary, 2739 Panama Lane, Bakersfield, CA. We will miss you Mama!

Source: Bakersfield Californian, 4/18/2012