Martin, Jorge 90: Died peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2009. Born in Costa Rica, he lived in the Caribbean and New York before becoming a resident of Orlando in 1969. Mr. Martin is survived by his beloved wife Andrea; daughters: Linda Ochs (James), Dawn Martin (Michael Hamlin), Jeannette Martin; grandchildren: Sherri Cremer (Scott), Joy Merryman (Brett), Jamie Allen (Eric), and Shane Ochs; great grandchildren: Sarah, Nicole, Justin, Amber, and Riley Quinn; sister-in-law: Carol Brown (Ed); nephews: John Wagner (Eileen) and Alan Wagner (Jan); grand niece: Amanda Wagner; grand nephews: Matthew and Michael. Jorge's dear family abroad--nephews: Edward Drew, David Drew, Phillip Gore (Christine), niece: Anthea Gore. Sweet friends: Duncan, Floyd, and anyone who knew him.
Jorge Martin believed in the Horatio Alger, rags to riches story that anyone could be a success in America. When illness threw him a curve ball, Jorge adapted and became rich--in spirit. He taught something that wealthy men are still in therapy for—appreciation for the simple things in life. Jorge always loved ice cream…a trip for it out took on epic proportions. To hear him describe the event would bring anyone pleasure! But his ultimate goal was to share the experience and in doing so, bring joy to others. Mr. Martin never met a stranger. As much as he enjoyed sharing his own stories, Jorge remembered and prayed about what others had to say.
His granddaughters' favorite story: When Jorge met Andrea they were at a mixer dance. In those days, it was a nice way to meet others—like musical chairs—except when the music stopped participants turned to face a new dance partner. But that evening the air was filled with laughter and romance. Somehow Jorge managed to stop in front of Andrea for every dance!
They danced together through 61 years of marriage. In spite of an injured back, Mr. Martin even managed to dance from his hospital bed on occasion. He enjoyed an active social life—beginning in the diplomatic services when his father was Costa Rica's consul to Jamaica. Andrea was the shy daughter of a minister—in Jamaica on a mission. Together they were their own version of Lucy and Ricky Ricardo.
As a Bookkeeper / Accountant, Jorge corrected costly errors in many a company's books. His family once watched him rescue a young woman from drowning. Jorge's daughters used to run to keep up with his long stride, now they cherish his gifts of laughter and friendship.
His funeral service will be conducted at 1:30 PM on Sunday, May 10th at Christ the King Episcopal Church, 26 Willow Drive, Orlando, FL 32807. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 9th from 5:00-9:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, 895 S. Goldenrod Road, Orlando, FL 32822. In lieu of flowers donations can be made "In Memory of Jorge Martin" to Hospice of the Comforter, 480 W. Central Parkway, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714.
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