By Linda Dillman
Staff Writer
After more than three decades, a familiar face to Canal Winchester residents hung up her mail carrier bag and closed her Post Office window for the last time in April.
While a few might not be familiar with her name—Rhonda Martinez—they know her face after her serving 33 years in the United States Postal Service in Canal Winchester, Williamsport, and Amanda.
She started with the postal service in 1987, first working at Williamsport then transferring to Amanda to be close to her home in Lancaster. She transferred to Canal Winchester in early 1995.
“And never left,” said Martinez. “I did walking routes in the village—when it was still a village—for a few years, then mainly worked the counter waiting on customers. This is what I enjoyed the most. I love people and interacting with them. Getting to know them and providing my best for the USPS.”
According to Martinez, she acquired a “mountain of knowledge” over the years and loved sharing it. Her initial training required 80 hours of reading and 40 hours on-the-job instruction, but she pointed out it is a much simpler process now.
“It was so much fun being a window clerk,” said Martinez. “The daily laughs, and I love to laugh, with my customers and coworkers. Many have become like family. But most importantly, we got the job done. I have been very fortunate to have a great memory and know most people by name and earned their trust, which I value. The public made my job a success.”
Martinez said she retired having a boss that she adored and co-workers to be envious of, for which she is very thankful. When she started in 1987, a stamp cost 22 cents. Now it is 55 cents, but she said it is still a great way to conduct business or connect with people
“The forever stamps came on the scene in April of 2007 and was a hit. I still have mine,” said Martinez, who said she will miss the people, groups of children wanting a tour, visits to schools, training new hires, her “awesome” coworkers and all her favorite customers.
Customer and resident Sue Edwards called Martinez “wonderful” and said she always made a person feel like they were her best friend.
“She would do anything for you—a person you would like for a best friend,” said Edwards. “I know she’ll be missed for her personality alone.”
Retirement does not mean Martinez will stop thinking about the people she served for and with for so many years.
“I have always said I could write a book. I won’t though—your secrets are safe with me,” kidded Martinez. “I have nothing but love for my coworkers and this community. Thanks for making me feel so special. Now I’m gonna garden to my heart’s desire and when all this social distancing has relaxed, I’ve got people to visit in Canal Winchester.”
