Ildemaro Jesus Martinez

Ildemaro "Maro" Martinez, 91, of Harrisburg, passed away Sunday, November 24, 2024, at his home. 

Maro was born on May 29, 1933, in Coro, Venezuela, to the late Leon Martinez and Luisa Caldera Martinez. 

Mr. Martinez obtained a Bachelor Degree in Economics from Andres Bello Catholic University in Caracas, Venezuela. He received his MBA from the University of Southern California. He continued his education at Syracuse University, where he completed his PHD in Public Administration. Mr. Martinez was awarded the Fulbright Scholarship from the Ambassador of the United States of America. This granted him a year of advanced post-doctoral education in Business Management at Harvard University. 

He traveled extensively to Europe, Asia, North, Central, and South America for professional purposes. He also held a position of Professor of master's degrees at Central de Venezuela, Zulia, IESA, and visiting professor at the University of Indiana. 

Besides traveling, Maro enjoyed music, dancing, eating, and playing the Cuatro. He was always ready to help whoever was in need and his laugh was contagious. 

His greatest joy in life was his grandkids. Everyone that knew Maro loved him, and he loved everyone. 

He is survived by his lovely wife, Elia; sons, Maro Jr. and Antonio; daughter, Marina and husband Alan Freeman; and two grandchildren, Cannon and Eliana. 

The family will receive friends from 11:30 - 1:15 pm at Hartsell Funeral Home at 12115 University City Blvd. Harrisburg. The funeral service will follow at 1:30 pm in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Father Luyen Dau. The service will be webcast.  Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, Mint Hill, NC. 

Memorial donations may be made to wayuutaya.org

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Martinez family.