Gilbert “Butch” Jesse Martinez, Jr, 73, of Blue Springs, MO peacefully passed away at home on Friday, December 9, 2022 surrounded by his wife of 54 years Phyllis; his sons, Stephen and Jeremy; his daughter, Anita; his grandchildren, Alixandria, soon to be grandson Josh, Devyn and his BFF Tailor. We can’t forget his best buddy Bandit.
Butch retired from Bridgestone/Firestone after 34 years of service. He was the biggest KU basketball fan around and NEVER missed the opportunity to watch a Kansas City Chiefs game with his family. Butch adored his wife was so proud of his children and grandchildren. A few of the last words he spoke were “Familia Prima” (Family First).
His family will receive family and friends from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at Meyers Funeral Chapel, 1600 W. Main St, Blue Springs, MO. Memorial service will begin at 5:00 p.m. at the chapel. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to https://kansascityzoo.org/form/memorial-gift as Gilbert has an adopted Penguin friend at the Kansas City Zoo named after him. The family has asked that you wear bright colors in Celebration of his life. Following the service Butch‘s family will take his cremains to his favorite place Puerto Vallarta, Mexico per his wishes. Memories of Butch and words of comfort for his family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Joe, Bobby and Richard. Survivors include his son, Jeff, and grandchildren Lauren and Cole.
We are so very sorry for your loss! We are thinking of you all! 💗
We are so very sorry for your loss. He always had a smile on his face and ready to give you a hug. He will be deeply missed
I am very sorry for the loss to the entire family and all who knew Gil. I spent many hours and years working with Gil at Firestone. Also many hours fishing with Gil on our Thursdays off. He was a very patient,gentle, man who always had a smile or a joke and and was always very tolerant if the practical joke was on him. He was one of a kind. God is very lucky to get him back. I doubt if God can make tacos for him as good as Phyllis but I am sure he will do his best😄. Live on Gil. ❤️
I was very sorry to learn of Gil’s passing. I am sure it is a huge loss for his family. I will remember him fondly. He always seemed to have a smile and pleasant comments to have a conversation! Much sympathy to Phyllis and family.
My condolences to all of Butch family. I’ve known Butch for a long time. He was such a funny guy. Always had Richard and I laughing. He’ll be with his brothers, now.
May he RIP.
RIP Gil. Go chiefs!
Sorry to hear about Butch passing. We go back a long way’s since grade school playing grade school football with him his brother Richard and Bobby caching us. RIP buddy.
My heart aches for the loss of this wonderful man. He was kind, funny, generous, and made life worth living. Janette would have a comment in that she passed away on the 14th. Love
Carol,Janette, and Idgy