Felipe "PoPo" Martinez

Felipe Ramiro Martinez aka “PoPo”, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025, in Temple, Texas. He was born on August 23, 1954, in the town of La Ventana, Guadalcazar, S.L.P Mexico to the late Sebastian Martinez and Maria Cortez, his brothers Masedonio, Marcelino, and Jose, sisters Eulalia, Andrea, Anita, Epifania, and Margarita. His kind heart and gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Felipe dedicated his life to serving others and Christ. He worked as a welder primarily at C&H Die Casting and Texas Hydraulics until his retirement. He met the love of his life, Ramona Carrillo Martinez, while at C&H and they were later married on March 5, 1976 and together until her passing in 2016. Felipe poured his heart into his family. Felipe’s dedication and support to all his grandchildren set him apart. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time at the ball fields/gym watching his grandkids playing sports. Even his grandchildren’s teammates and their families came to love seeing “PoPo” at the fields cheering on every kid as if they were his own. Family always held a special place in his heart. He cherished spending time with his loved ones and created beautiful memories that will be forever cherished. His love for others and selflessness displayed his love for Christ and his faith.

Felipe is survived by his daughter Melissa, sons John Michael, Anthony, and Ramiro. Felipe’s sister-in-law’s who continued to love him and care for him until his passing Lani, Minnie, Sandy, Elva, Paula, and Eva. Grandchildren Kadyn, Cason, Kyzer, Michael Anthony, Steven, Christopher, Jazzmen, Julian (preceded), Sergio, Brandon, “JJ,” and numerous great-grandchildren.

Felipe’s memory will be honored at the Harper-Talasek Funeral Home located at 500 W Barton Ave in Temple, Texas. A time of visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Funeral services will take place Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 10 am at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Temple. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery. Afterwards, the family would be honored if you would join them at the Santa Fe Depot for a celebration of life.

Felipe was a beacon of light in the lives of those he knew. His kindness and generosity touched countless hearts and inspired others to live with compassion and love. He leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and devotion that will continue to guide his family and friends for generations to come. In this time of mourning, let us come together to celebrate Felipe’s remarkable life and remember the joy he brought into our lives. Though we mourn his loss today, let us also find solace in knowing that he is dancing among the stars, forever watching over us with love and grace. May his beautiful soul rest in eternal peace with our Lord & Savior and his beautiful bride and we are giving God all the Glory they are reunited once again.