John E. Martinez, 1937 - 2026

Forever on a Johnny Journey

 
John E. Martinez (“Jumping Johnny”), of Hamilton, NJ passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by family, friends, and stories. John was connected to Allentown through his granddaughter, Allentown Councilwoman, Erica DeKranes.

Born on August 3, 1937 in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Jesus Martinez and Amparo Prego (of Galicia, Spain), John spent his life bringing laughter, warmth, and fishing knowledge to everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

John was married to Theresa Martinez (née Aprile) for 65 years, and is survived by his three beloved children, Denise (Frank), Ronald (Naomi), and Christopher (Stephanie); his brother-in-law, Anthony (Lisa) and sister-in-law, Lillian (Michael); his grandchildren, Nicole (Thomas) and Erica (William), and his great-grandchildren, Evelyn and Thomas, who lovingly knew him as Oldpa.

John was a decorated hero in the Marines, who rescued fellow service members during the Ribbon Creek Incident at Parris Island in 1956. John also served abroad and brought back many colorful tales of boosting morale.

A dedicated family man and railroad conductor, John worked long shifts for Amtrak where he took pride in caring for his passengers. Later in life he worked at Capitol Fishing Store in New York, NY, where he shared his expertise with average Joes, celebrities, and international dignitaries.

Mr. Wonderful will forever be remembered for his adventurous spirit, including his love of fishing, camping, and the infamous canoe trips (aka Canoes, Camping, and Chaos), which he organized to bring family and friends together from all over the country for days of outdoor fun and “activities.” Family and friends will also recall card games in the trailer and Christmas Eve parties at the family home. John’s love of music as a master of percussion evolved into group jam sessions that left everyone saying, “more cowbell, please.”

The patriarch of our family village, John will be greatly missed, but his legacy lives on in those whose lives he touched, and we know he is off on an epic Johnny journey now.

 

 
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