Tonight, it is as if public life in Belize has lost some pith, some of our Belizean-ness has been whittled away with the passing of two fine, upstanding gentlemen - who operated in very different realms but their excellence, composure and commitment made us all better. Legendary baker, the 83 year old Zebedee Pitterson died in Belize City at 7:30 last night, and stellar diplomat, 60 year old Fred Martinez died in Guatemala around 11:00 pm.
They will both be missed in ways large and small: all the children that Pitterson fed for so many years won't send press releases or wreaths to his funeral, but they will surely miss him.
By contrast, Fred Martinez operated at the highest official level of our state; and the laurels for him are accumulating as they should:
Today former PUP Foreign Minister Eamon Courtenay - who is out of the country told us via email, quote: "Fred answered the call of service to Belize and Belizeans, he distinguished himself as one of our very best diplomats. Belize and his family has lost a great diplomat and a gentleman."
In a similar vein the OAS Adjacency Office for whom he was Belize's Chief negotiator, they say quote, "He was a brilliant diplomat whose dedication to his work, despite many challenges and obstacles, are commendable. We will truly miss his energy and commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship between Belize and Guatemala.
The advances achieved in the process can be attributed in large part to his tireless efforts directed at promoting dialogue and international cooperation. He represented the best in the diplomatic service.
He was an equally outstanding person, leader and friend to all who knew him."
And, with equally high praise the PUP said quote, "He was a master of the art of difficult circumstances and his skill and experience were a hallmark of his work as Belize's Chief Negotiator on the Guatemalan claim.
Ambassador Martinez was an ardent and committed defender of Belize's sovereignty and was dedicated to ensuring that at all times, Belize was represented at the highest possible level with passion, grace, wisdom and great wit. He will be missed by all who had the honor to know him and work with him."
Martinez was married with three sons.
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