Odem – Martin F. Ybanez, age 87, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025.

Martin was born on June 24, 1938, in Oakville, Texas, to Jesusa (Flores) and Jose Maria Ybanez. A lifelong resident of Odem, Martin was known for his kind heart, joyful spirit, and strong connection to his roots. He proudly served in the United States Army, an experience he often reflected on with great pride and gratitude. It was one of this life's greatest honors and accomplishments. He had a remarkable green thumb and took great pride in tending to his plants and fruit trees. His garden was a source of beauty and nourishment, much like his presence in the lives of those who knew him. Martin had a spontaneous and joyful soul, often bursting into song at any moment. He believed that “singing is the key to happiness”—a philosophy he lived by daily. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan through and through, Martin rarely missed a game and wore his team colors with pride. And when it came to dessert, no one could compete with his love for coconut cream pie. Martin will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His laughter, warmth, and songs will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Preceding in death is his spouse: Simona Ybanez; great-grandchild: Christina Marroquin; parents: Jose and Jesusa Ybanez; twin brother: Maximiliano “Nene” Ybanez; brother: Felix Ybanez; and sisters: Cora Neal and Carrie Ruiz; and grandson-in-law: Julian Garza

Survivors include his son: Jesse Ybanez (Elizabeth) from Odem, Texas; daughters: Jo Ann Cruz (Martin) from, Diana Ybanez (Jose Gilberto), and Christine Ybanez all from Odem, Texas; grandchildren: Molly Garza, Simona “LeeAnn” Gonzales (Marc), Martin Cruz, Jr. (Erica), Crystal MarroQuin (Randy), Joe Ybanez, Christopher Cruz (Jackie), and Clarissa Morin (Brandon); numerous great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; brothers: Fransico “Pancho” Ybanez from Alice, Texas; and Jose Maria “Sonny” Ybanez (Trinidad) from George West, Texas; and sisters: Olga Diaz from George West, Texas and Eugenia “Ginger” Blomstrom (David) from Houston, Texas;

Pallbearers will be Matthew Hernandez, Martin Cruz, Jr., Christopher Cruz, Marc Gonzales, Jr., Christian Gonzales, Orion Gonzales, Nicolas Rangel, Marc Gonzales, Randy MarroQuin, Galvin Cruz and Matthew Rangel.

Visitation will begin Monday, September 8, 2025, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel, Sinton. The Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be the same evening 7:00 PM at the funeral home. A Christian Rites Catholic Service will be celebrated Tuesday, September 9, 2025, 11:00 AM at the Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel, Sinton. The Graveside Service will follow 1:00 PM at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, Corpus Christi.

Guestbook available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com

Arrangements and care entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Sinton.