Steven "Steve" William Martinez passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at the age of 65.  He was born on December 29, 1960, in San Jose, California to Paul Ruben Martinez and the late Sandra Jean Martinez.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Judy Anne Martinez, his son, Jacob Steven Martinez (Amber), and grandchild Theo Sloop.  Steve and Judy married on July 22, 1989 in Olney Maryland.   Steve is survived by his brother Paul Edward Martinez (Connie); sisters - Kathy Martinez, Lauren Martinez, and Linda Martinez Zornes (Hugh); his nieces - Summer Carney, Michelle Zornes, and Morgan Martinez (Gustavo); nephews – Chris Zornes (Melissa) and the late Michael "Mick" Carney;  his "bonus grandchildren" Aden Hill, Asher Hill, and Abi Hill and their parents, Art and Robin Hill, as well as numerous close friends.

Steve lived in Wilmington since the age of 9.  His first job was at age 10 delivering papers with his brother for the Wilmington Star news.   He helped build the Independence Mall at age 16 and later worked at the Lincoln-Mercury Dealership.  He earned his Associate's Degree at Cape Fear Community College as a machinist.  He worked as a machinist at American Crane and General Electric (21.5 years).  He then opened his own business "40 East Air Cooled".

Steve was forever young, forever compassionate, forever kind, forever loving, forever camping, forever racing, forever surfing, forever loving nature, and forever enjoying music.  Steve's passion for racing culminated in his winning the Southeast Volkswagen Association (SEVWA) 2025 series championship.

His passion and love for his family were always his priority.  He wanted Judy and Jake to have everything they wanted and he was going to find it at a yard sale.

A celebration of life will take place at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home in Wilmington.  The family will receive friends and visitors 2 hours prior to the service (4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.) at the funeral home.

A late autumn memorial cruise will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in Steve's memory.

Friends and family are welcome to stay for the service and may bring pictures of Steve to share.  Please put your name and phone number on the back of the pictures if you would like them returned.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting the Tribute Wall above.

Quinn McGowen Funeral Home of Wilmington is serving the family.

910-794-7171