Wally P. Martin

Wally P. Martin, our beloved father, died peacefully on the afternoon of June 3, 2015.

Born September 11, 1926 in Grants Pass, Ore., Wally was the second child of James Clyde and Rhoda Fay (Sill) Martin.

After graduation from Grants Pass High School in 1944 and one year's study at the University of Oregon, Wally joined the Army Air Corps (a precursor to the U.S. Air Force), hoping to become a navigator. Nine months later, when the end of World War II was in sight, he and many other enlistees chose to accept an early honorable discharge.

Wally then attended the U of O law school, graduating in 1950. He joined the Grants Pass law practice of Samuel M. Bowe, which later became Martin & Wolke. Wally served on the Oregon Board of Bar Examiners from 1969 to 1972, acting as chair from 1971 to 1972. He was the Municipal Judge of the city of Grants Pass for 25 years, from 1952 to 1977.

Wally married Lucretia (Crete) Josephine Bunce on November 10, 1952, in Reno, Nevada. Together they raised four children, who survive: Bonnie Fazio (John); Pamela McMahon (Bill); Jay; and Jeff (Jessica). Wally is also survived by 10 grandchildren, three great-grandsons and several nieces and nephews.

In 1985, Wally married Lorraine (Licha) Wodke, who survives him. Wally and Lorraine were able to travel to exotic and far-flung destinations for several years, until both experienced declining health.
Wally's parents, his sister Maxine Simonsen, and his first wife, Lucretia, preceded him in death.
Wally was locally famous for his sharp wit and musical talent (his instrument was the trombone). He was in frequent demand to act as Master of Ceremonies for fundraisers in and around Grants Pass, and belonged to numerous musical groups -- such as a trombone 'choir' called Rack of Bones and a big band named The Associates -- throughout his adult life. Along with Ray Salisbury and Dave Stanger, Wally performed cleverly written parodies of popular songs at tributes, roasts and fundraisers around town.

Our dad wore many hats. Organizations to which he belonged include: Barnstormers (founding member); Active Club (he was among those who created Boatnik); Chamber of Commerce; and Knife and Fork club. He was an avid golfer for decades. He's been called 'the funniest man in Grants Pass.' And he was the best dad ever.

A memorial service and celebration of Wally's life will be held at 11 am on Friday, June 19 at the Hull & Hull Chapel, 612 NW A St., Grants Pass. Memorial donations may be made to a favorite charity.