John Martinez

Firefighter John Martinez of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District in Pacheco, California, succumbed to occupational-related cancer on November 12, 2023. He fought a long and courageous battle after his diagnosis in 2022. He was 34 years old and had served with the department since 2017. He was also a United States Army veteran, having served for over five years, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He served his country bravely and proudly, including tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Martinez was born in Martinez, California, to parents John and Caroline. He was an only child who was raised in a loving household. His favorite toys were GI Joe soldiers and Tonka toys. He grew up in Antioch, California, and graduated from Antioch High School, where he played football. He loved the level of dedication, hard work, teamwork and camaraderie that football provided and demanded. That experience inspired him to join the U.S. Army. He was active from 2009 until 2014 and was in the reserves until 2016. In basic training, he was selected as a squad leader and was awarded the badge for expert marksmanship.

After the service, Martinez volunteered with the River Delta Fire District. He became a firefighter with Con Fire in 2017. In 2022, he was named Contra Costa Firefighter of the year. He was given the Firefighters Award by the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2023. He was known for his wicked sense of humor and his absolute inability to quit or give up. He was a true leader of men, who loved his profession, his community, and his country. 

Martinez met his future wife, Sara, in high school. She was drawn to his quiet demeanor and self-confidence in who he was. They married and went on to have two children, Dominic and Caylee. He was a loyal husband, a proud father, and a good provider. The family enjoyed vacations together and trips to Disneyland. Martinez loved his family with all his heart. He was a man who laid down his life to protect and serve his fellow man.

Firefighter John Martinez is survived by his loving wife, Sara, his children, Dominic and Caylee, his father, John, his grandmothers, Maggie Martinez and Maria Vizcarra, and many cherished family members and friends.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Martinez family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.