Emilio Martinez Vasquez (1945–2024)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Emilio Martinez Vasquez, a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend, who passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family.
Emilio was born on April 20, 1945, in Mexicali, Mexico, to Nelly Vasquez and Emilio Vasquez.
Emilio grew up in Santa Barbara, California, and was a proud graduate of Santa Barbara High School, Class of 1964, where he remained a loyal Don Alumni throughout his life. Immediately after high school, Emilio answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy. He served for six years, a service he took great pride in as a veteran.
Over the years, Emilio worked in a variety of fields, from tending bar, to working as a medical equipment sales representative, to serving as a security guard. No matter where life took him, Emilio found joy in the people he met and the stories he shared.
One of Emilio’s greatest passions was baseball. He not only played the sport but also coached the Toros Baseball Team, a team he created, where his sons, Joey and Paul, played by his side. He also cherished coaching Little League, sharing his love of the game with younger generations.
Emilio’s greatest pride was his family. He loved being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always eager to see them grow and thrive. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and he relished every opportunity to spend time with them, creating countless cherished memories. Emilio had a deep love for his favorite things: cheering for the Dodgers, fishing, supporting the Rams, and enjoying his daily cup of coffee.
Emilio is survived by his loving wife, Rosalie Vasquez, and his five children: Margaret, Joseph (Anna), Paul (Jennifer Briscoe), Veronica Solano (Paul), and Carol Ibarra (Ricardo), his sisters Lupe Perez, Teresa Guess, and Maria Mendoza, his mother, Nelly, his 9 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Emilio was preceded in death by his father, Emilio Vasquez, and his beloved sister Mercedes Melgoza.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Scott Godfrey and the team at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in Santa Barbara, as well as Livingston Memorial in Ventura, for the care and support they provided as well as Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Ventura.
Our dad was a first-class gentleman, strong in both body and spirit. He had a sense of humor that brightened every room, always finding the joy in life and sharing it with others. He was wise, loved being the center of attention, and most of all, was always thinking of others. He taught us to love fiercely, laugh often, and always lend a helping hand.
Emilio will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and family will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew him.
Services for Emilio Martinez Vasquez will be held on Friday, November 8, 10:00 a.m. at Guadalupe Church, located at 227 N. Nopal St. in Santa Barbara. Following the service, a celebration of his life will take place at 12:30 p.m., Manning Park, 449 San Ysidro Rd. Montecito, Area 9. Family and friends are invited to join us as we honor and remember Emilio's life, sharing stories, laughter, and love—just as he would have wanted.