Gene Martin

Derald Eugene “Gene” Martin, 83, of Ellensburg, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 after a brave battle with cancer.  A private family service will be held.

Gene was born in Okanogan, Washington on October 12, 1938. His family soon moved to Lake City, Washington, where he lived two doors down from his future wife to be, Margaret. She was 8 and he was 9 years old. Gene graduated from Clover Park High School in Lakewood, Washington and worked for the family business, Lakewood Floor Covering with his parents and brother, Larry. Gene and Margaret were married at the Little Church on the Prairie in Lakewood in 1959.

He bought his first real estate project while in high school. Throughout his life he purchased, renovated, and sold many properties including residential homes and a number of motels and large commercial buildings. Gene and Margaret moved to Ellensburg in 1980 trading a golf course for a ranch in the Badger Pocket, where they lived part time. Son Rick moved to Ellensburg about the same time and eventually took over the ranch. Gene continued buying and developing properties in the region and owned a number of different businesses during his career.

Throughout his life Gene owned and enjoyed numerous motorcycles, cars, Jeeps, race cars, airplanes and boats. A favorite trip was a motorcycle adventure up the Alaska Highway with his son Rick. He enjoyed hunting and camping with family. Later in life he became an excellent wood worker and had a great passion for building furniture or toys for many family members. His brain was constantly at work and his design ability was exceptional.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Berneece Martin as well as his brother Larry Martin. He is survived by his wife of 62 years Margaret Martin; sons Rick Martin (Sidney) and Randy Martin (Missy). He will be missed by grandchildren Court Martin (Ali), Kyle Martin, Lucy Martin, Ava Martin, Milo Martin, and two great grandchildren Briley and Mason Martin. He also loved his two best friend dogs.

Memorial contributions in Gene’s honor are suggested to Hospice Friends, 302 E. Second Avenue, Ellensburg, Washington 98926.

Johnston & Williams Funeral Home and Crematory of Ellensburg has been entrusted with caring for Mr. Martin and his family.  Online condolences may be left at www.johnston-williams.com