Rosalia "Rose" Martinez

In Loving Memory of Rosalia “Rose” Martinez August 14, 1932 – September 12, 2025 With deep love and gratitude, we honor the life of Rosalia (Rose) Martinez, who was born at home in St. Cloud, Minnesota, on August 14, 1932. Rose had a lifelong curiosity and a gift for connecting with people. With the encouragement of her aunt, she pursued nursing, attending Saint Mary’s School of Nursing in Rochester, Minnesota. Rose always said she had two choices in life—to be a teacher or a nurse—and she carried the dedication and discipline of her nursing training throughout her entire life. It was in Rochester that Rose met her husband, Dr. Nestor Martinez, who was complimenting his surgical training. Their story was marked by tradition, being married twice—first in a civil ceremony and later in the church. Together, they built a life filled with devotion and resilience, raising their family while living in Chicago, Rose later spending meaningful years in Arizona and Ohio. Rose was predeceased by her beloved husband Nestor; her parents, Pearl Walker Scherer and Edward James Scherer; and her siblings, William Kouts, Janette Scherer Selig, and Joseph Scherer. She is survived by her daughters, Maria (Terry) Slayman, Patricia Martinez, and Alicia (Jon Sharrett) Martinez; her grandchildren, Tyler (Brooke) Slayman, Amelia Martinez, and Julie (Adam) Upton; and her great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Damien (Pauline) Scherer, as well as many nieces, nephews, and her loyal feline companion, Yogi. Rose lived with fierce independence and an unmatched curiosity about the world. She found joy in nature, sewing and artisan crafts, the love of reading literature of all genres, and sharing her love of cats. Proudly calling herself a luddite, she delighted in offering factoids and stories to everyone she met, enriching the lives of those around her. She also carried a lively sense of humor, never missing an opportunity to play a good prank. April Fools’ Day was one of her favorite celebrations, highlighting her playful spirit. Rose will be remembered for a life rooted in generosity, dedication, and resilience. She will be cherished for her unwavering commitment, quiet strength, genuine care for others, her humor and playfulness, and the wisdom she shared with her family and friends. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff and residents at Willow Brook Christian Home and the Capital City Hospice team, who provided gentle care and support. In keeping with her wishes, Rose has been cremated, and a private service will be held with her immediate family. Memorial donations may be made in her name to: Cozy Cat Cottage Adoption Center, P.O. Box 283, Powell, Ohio 43065-0283, honoring her lifelong love of animals. .

Rosalia "Rose" Martinez

August 14, 1932 - September 12, 2025