Martin Maldonado

Martin Maldonado of Pemberton, a loving father and husband, passed away peacefully Monday, May 7, 2012, surrounded by his adoring family. He was 94. Mr. Maldonado was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and lived in the Pemberton area for more than 35 years with his wife of 65 years. Mr. Maldonado diligently served his country as an E-6 in the U.S. Army. He was a veteran of two wars, Korea and Vietnam, and a pioneer as one of the few male nurses during this time. Mr. Maldonado received the following awards for his service, V.S.M., N.D.S.M. (O.L.C.), G.C.M. (4th Award) and V.C.M. His career alone serves as a legacy for his family. Mr. Maldonado also was a lifetime member of Christ the Redeemer Church in Mount Holly. He also served as a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 7814, and Sacrado Corazon Congresacion. Mr. Maldonado, or "Pappa" to his grandchildren, is best remembered as the quiet, strong force behind his family. He was never without a smile, laugh, and a hug. He instilled hard work and a strong faith in his family. Mr. Maldonado and his wife believed in family first and that did not mean you had to be born into it to be family. They welcomed all. Together they ingrained strong traditions and values that created amazing memories and an even greater family legacy. Mr. Maldonado was the true patriarch and will be truly missed. Mr. Maldonado was preceded in death by his wife, Felicita Maldonado; and great-grandson, Roman Maldonado. He is survived by his children, Jose Maldonado (Janet) of Lumberton, Fernando Maldonado (the late Rita) of Westampton, Iris Rodriguez (Angel) of Lumberton, Carmen Sierra of Pemberton, and Awilda Rodriguez (Jose) of Lumberton. He also is survived by 15 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren and counting; and one great-great-grandson. Funeral arrangements will take place Friday, May 11, with a visitation and viewing from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Perinchief Chapels, 438 High St., Mount Holly. A Mass in his honor will follow at 11 a.m. at Christ the Redeemer Church, 35 E. South Ave., in Mount Holly. Burial to follow Mass in Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Arneytown. Due to cemetery restrictions, no flowers please; the family requests donations in his name be made to the American Cancer Society, 1851 Old Cuthbert Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034.

Martin Maldonado

October 16, 1917 - May 7, 2012