Longtime College of San Mateo football coach Tom Martinez passed away Tuesday -- his 66th birthday -- after suffering from a heart attack during a dialysis session. The Mercury News first reported his death.
Martinez gained public acclaim from his years of work with New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.
Brady issued the following statement:
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"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my coach, mentor and friend. Coach Martinez's invaluable assistance and support will never be forgotten and will always have a lasting impact on my life. The time we spent together remain some of my fondest memories. His legacy of commitment, toughness and determination will live on forever."
Martinez and Brady were recently featured on Comcast SportsNet when Brady raised awareness for his mentor, who lived with diabetes and needed a kidney transplant.
REWIND: Tom Brady's big assist to boyhood coach
With over 1,400 career wins, Martinez is the most successful community college coach in the history of California.
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On Sept. 23, 2011, Martinez was inducted into the College of San Mateo Hall of Fame. Also included in the class were Bill Walsh and John Madden, who preceded Martinez at CSM.