To view the livestream Funeral Service, please go to https://calvarygf.org/worship-online

In Loving Memory of Miguel "Mike" Martinez, Jr., 64., of Grand Forks, ND.

On September 29, 2023, the world lost a remarkable soul, Miguel "Mike" Martinez, Jr., affectionately known as "Mikey." His unexpected passing occurred at the Altru Rehabilitation Center in Grand Forks, where he bravely battled complications from a stroke. Mike's departure leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories that will forever reside in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Born on April 18, 1959, in Alamo, TX, Mike was the proud son of a south Texas Mexican family deeply intertwined with the farming industry. Life's twists and turns led him northward, ultimately guiding him to the embrace of "God's Country" in Grand Forks. It was here that he and his beloved wife, Lori, put down roots and lovingly raised their daughter, Christina.

Mike spent a lifetime dedicated to the trucking industry, most recently as a valued member of Horizon Logistics. The title of "trucker" was one he wore with the utmost pride, a fact underscored by his achievement of earning the prestigious One Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Miles Safe Driver Award in 2017. To those who knew him, every mile marker on his journey held a story, every stretch of asphalt preserved a memory, and every truck stop became a treasury of tales. Mike was a master storyteller. He had a distinctive voice, a unique mix of Mexican and Norwegian, that carried with it the warmth of his personality and the wisdom of his experiences. While the accuracy of his facts may have occasionally been questionable (which his family loved to playfully tease him about), he had a gift for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary tales, and a knack for finding joy in the everyday. Mikey's legacy is not just a road well-traveled but a life well-lived—one where he was known for doing anything for anyone without hesitation.

He leaves behind his loving wife and best friend of 27 years, Lori Klug Martinez. On their recent 25th wedding anniversary, they danced to "I Cross My Heart" by George Strait surrounded by an adoring family. Mike was Lori's steadfast partner who, as the lyrics say, gave all he could give to make her dreams come true. Together they "always made each tomorrow the best it could be." He also leaves behind his cherished daughter, Christina, her husband, Matt Hagen, and their precious daughter, Hazel Hagen, of Roseville, MN. Christina was the very heart of Mikey's existence, and he wore his pride in being her father as a badge of honor. His affection for his "cupcake," Hazel, knew no bounds. Mike also embraced his role as not only a father and grandfather, but as a beloved figure to Christina and Matt's friends from the University of North Dakota. Mike's memory is further carried on by his father, Miguel Martinez, Sr., of McAllen, TX, and his four siblings, Cindy Salazar of McAllen, TX, and Bonnie, Sherry, and Jessie Martinez of Crookston, MN. His warm presence also touched the lives of numerous nieces and nephews, as well as the entire extended Klug family.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Dora Mae Martinez; stepmother, Felicitas Martinez, and fishing buddy and father-in-law, Paul Klug.

May Mike' s voice continue to echo in our hearts, and may his spirit forever guide us down the open road of adventure, with the same joy he so passionately embraced. Rest in peace, dear Mikey.

A Celebration of Life and Funeral Service To Honor Mike: Will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 9, 2023, in Calvary Lutheran Church, 1405 South 9th Street, Grand Forks, ND 58201.
Visitation: One hour prior to the funeral service in the church on Monday.
Burial: He will be laid to rest at 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 9, 2023 at Washington Lutheran Church Cemetery in Northwood, ND.

To show your support, you may consider making a memorial donation directly to the family.

The family warmly invites you to share your condolences and celebrate Mike's life by signing this online guest book and sharing your favorite memories.