Nicolas “Nick” Soto Martinez, age 78, of Wyoming, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, surrounded by the loved ones who meant so much to him.

Born on December 6, 1947, in San Antonio, Texas, Nick was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was a generous and loving man who spent his life putting others before himself. Nick was hardworking, selfless, determined, and never one to complain. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a playful spirit that could bring laughter to those around him.

After attending Free Soil High School, Nick was drafted into the United States Army in 1967. He served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969 with the 11D20 Armor Recon Specialist. For his service and sacrifice, Nick was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. His courage, strength, and dedication to his country were qualities he carried with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Nick built a long and successful career with General Motors, where he worked for more than 35 years before retiring. He took great pride in his work and in providing for the family he loved so deeply.

On February 19, 1970, Nick married the love of his life, Becky (Wright) Martinez. Together, they shared 56 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, laughter, and countless memories. They were blessed with two children, Eric and Buffy.

Nick found some of his greatest happiness in the outdoors and in spending time up north. He loved tinkering around in his sheds, riding quads, fishing, and hunting. But perhaps nothing brought him more joy than spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was always happiest when surrounded by family.

Nick also had a special talent for creating things with his hands. He enjoyed making custom birdhouses and, even more so, giving them away to others. His generosity was reflected in the countless little things he did for the people he loved.

Nick’s greatest legacy is not found in his accomplishments, but in the people he loved and the lives he touched. He was a man who gave freely, loved deeply, worked hard, and always put his family first. His stories, jokes, laughter, and the memories he created will continue to live on through the generations of his family.

Nick is survived by his beloved wife, Becky (Wright) Martinez; his daughter, Buffy Martinez; his grandchildren, Justin and Martina Martinez, Ericka Martinez, Alexis Goodman, Antonio and Marie Trevino, Aliah Trevino, and Layla Trevino; and his seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merced and Margarita (Soto) Martinez; and his son, Eric Martinez.

Though Nick’s presence will be deeply missed, his love will remain woven into the lives of his family forever. His memory will live on in every story told, every laugh shared, every birdhouse built, every trip up north, and in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor David Towenson officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Saturday from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.