In loving memory of Martin Solozabal Alberdi Martin Solozabal, born on March 1, 1944, in Markina-Xemein, Vizcaya, Spain. He left this earth on January 12, 2024 to claim his heavenly rewards, after courageously fighting Lou Gehrig’s Disease (Bulbar ALS). Martin was the beloved son of the late Miguel Solozabal Aquirrebengoa and Victoria Alberdi Zubizarreta.
He leaves behind his loving wife of fifty-five years, Ramona, and their cherished children; son Eduardo Solozabal of Stuart, Florida; and daughter Victoria Trocki (Rob) along with adored granddaughters Raychel and Sarrah Trocki, of Ocoee, Florida.
He is also survived by his brothers Javier (Mari Carmen); Juanito (Pilar); and nieces, nephews and cousins who reside with their respective families in Vizcaya, Spain. At the early age of eight, Martin began playing Cesta Punta, Jai-Alai. At fifteen, while serving in the Spanish military in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, he continued playing Jai Alai and went on to excel professionally. Martin continued showcasing his skill and passion for the sport in Spain at Markina, Bilbao and Zaragoza.
In 1963, his profession brought him to the United States to play in Orlando, Daytona, and West Palm Beach, Florida. He, also, traveled to Newport, Rhode Island to further his athletic career, becoming an elite member of the Newport Jai Alai Century Club, 100 games won (August 21, 1982). Beyond his athletic successes, Martin enjoyed a successful career as a Carpenter, leaving his mark on both residential and commercial properties, throughout Florida.
Later in life, he found fulfillment as a Facilities Support-Carpenter Shop member at The Breakers of Palm Beach. Martin was a cherished employee who inspired many over twenty-two years of service at the resort, receiving recognition for his excellence in workmanship and commitment to quality service until his retirement in 2020. Martin’s joy extended to shore and pier fishing, nurturing vegetable gardens, and creating delightful meals in the kitchen, including his favorite dish, tortilla de patatas. And, he was an avid sports enthusiast.
His many interests included: futbol (soccer), La Liga Athletico de Bilbao and Barcelona and the English Premier League Liverpool and Chelsea: the 3 Grand Tours of Cycling-the Tour de France, the Vuelta de España, the Giro d’Italia: the Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments and the four PGA Golf Majors. Martin Solozabal will be remembered for his love of God, dedication to family, his friendship to many, his multifaceted talents, and the joy he brought to those around him.