Celestina Lucero Martinez

It is with a heavy heart that the family announces the passing of our loved one, Celestina Lucero Martinez, age 88, on May 13, 2019 surrounded by her immediate family in San Jose, California.

Celestina was affectionately nicknamed “Palily” by her family when she was growing up in Central.  She relocated to the Bay area with her husband, Felipe and their children during one of the mine strikes in Grant County and remained a resident there until her passing.  Celestina had an infectious smile and was known for her quick wit and for her feistiness, a trait that proved to be a great source of strength during her prolonged illness.  Celestina was born to Julian Gonzales Lucero and Sadie Swartz Lucero.

Celestina is survived by her husband, Felipe Martinez; daughter, Mary Esther Gardner; sons, Felipe Jr. (aka Phillip) and his wife Margaret (aka Peggy) Martinez and Conrad Martinez.    Celestina’s grandchildren include Herbie Ortega, Billy Gardner, Joe Lesca, David Gardner, Daniel Martinez, Jamie Burkett and Jessica Martinez.  Her great-grandchildren are Nicholaus Mayeau, Trevor Mayeau and Jayden Ortega.  She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.  Celestina was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Cecilia Lucero Gomez, Jim Lucero and Celia Lucero Nunez; her daughter, Rita Ortega and her granddaughter, Cecilia Ortega.

A Memorial Service to celebrate her life will be held at Holy Cross Church, 580 Jackson Street, in San Jose, California on Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at 5pm.  Cremation has taken place at Martinez Family Mortuary in San Jose, California.

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