FRAMINGHAM– Rafael Martinez, 69, of Framingham, died Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at Massachusetts General Hospital. He was the husband of Maria Socorro Martinez of Framingham for the past 40 years. Born in Palmira, Valle, Colombia, the son of the late Lisandro and Mariana (Hernandez) Martinez, he moved to Framingham in 1997.
Rafael was self-employed as a taxi driver for 25 years before retiring. He was a talented handyman who was known for his ability to build or fix anything and everything. A vivacious soul, he enjoyed soccer, dancing, and parties. Above all, Rafael was a loving and compassionate man who took a great deal of pride in his family. Besides his wife, he leaves four daughters, Margarita M. Martinez of New York and Sandra J. Martinez, Mariana Martinez, and Diana Martinez all of Framingham; four sisters, Alba, Alicia, Ruth, and Chila, all of Colombia; and four grandchildren, Ricardo and Elizabeth of New York, and Gabriella and Alexxa of Framingham.
A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 23rd at 10 a.m. at Saint Stephen's Church, 221 Concord St, Framingham. Following cremation, burial will be private. Calling hours will be held Sunday, May 22nd from 5 to 8 p.m., at the Fitzgerald & Collins Funeral Home (www.CollinsFuneral.com), 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough. All are welcome to sign Rafael's online guestbook at www.CollinsFuneral.com.

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