Bill Cordova Martinez has dedicated his life to helping others. He grew up in a loving family with twin brothers and a younger sister, Marianne, with whom he developed a close bond. Their bond grew even stronger as they grew up. When Bill heard Marianne had kidney disease and would have to wait a long time for a new kidney, he gave her one of his. Marianne was able to carry on for 12 more years with Bill's kidney until she passed away on June 4, 2013 from a fatal accident. Throughout that time, Bill continued to show the unconditional love and courage that had come to define him.

Bill's Story

Bill Cordova Martinez grew up in a loving family with twin brothers and their sister, Marianne. The brothers would often bribe Marianne not to tell their parents when they got into trouble. Sometimes that worked - sometimes not. As Bill and Marianne grew into adulthood, they also grew closer. That bond strengthened through marriages and families moving to different parts of California.

In 1990, Bill, his wife Shelly and their young children relocated to Lake Tahoe where Bill began working with disadvantaged teens as part of the California Conservation Corps. He also risked his life on the front lines fighting California wild fires for days and weeks at a time. Every day, Bill demonstrated leadership, empathy and motivation to his young charges and coworkers. He made himself a role model for the right way to live; to help people and do things for the greater good.

Marianne, her husband Jerry, and their daughter Kelly remained in Orange County. Bill and Marianne grew even closer despite the many miles between them. In 2000, Marianne was diagnosed with the kidney disease Focal Segmental Glomuralsclerosis. She endured a series of treatments to prolong the life of her kidneys. Despite her best efforts, Marianne was placed on the waiting list within a year.

When Bill learned that Marianne would have to endure a long wait for a new kidney, he decided to give her the gift of life by donating one of his kidneys. The transplant surgery was performed on October 11, 2001. Through Bill's selfless act, Marianne was able to enjoy as normal a life as possible, despite numerous medical issues and setbacks. Bill's gift lasted until June 4, 2013, when Marianne suffered a fatal accident at home.

Throughout those years, Bill continued to show Marianne, and also Kelly, the unconditional love and courage that had come to define him.