In memoriam: David Gentry Martin

David Gentry Martin. Photo provided Karen Martin.

Family and friends are mourning the loss of longtime Canyon Lake resident David Gentry Martin. He passed away on July 27, 2019, with those who loved him by his side.

David, his wife Karen and then baby daughter Stephanie moved to Canyon Lake 42 years ago, in March of 1977. David loved the community, all the amenities and the people who called it home. He was an avid boater, skier and fisherman.  He was president of the Tennis Club, played on the Men’s Senior Softball team and enjoyed golfing at the North Course in Sun City with friends. He loved to travel and was fortunate to visit many fascinating places all over the world.

David was born on May 1, 1936, in Ottumwa, Iowa.  He was the first of three children of Lorene and Leonard Martin.  He grew up in Ottumwa and Barnes City, loving the fun of the outdoors.

David enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1954, serving for four years in Korea, Japan and Hawaii.  He was fortunate to use the G.I. Bill to obtain his bachelor’s degree from California State University Fullerton and his master’s degree from Whittier College.

He was a teacher and resource specialist for over 30 years in Brea, LaHabra and Saddleback school districts. He loved helping students with learning problems succeed and become the best they could be.  He also coached many kids in track, football, basketball and baseball. Some Canyon Lakers may remember him from his small business he ran after retirement.

He is survived by his loving wife Karen of 45 years, his daughter Stephanie Villavicencio and her husband Hector, his grandson Christian David and granddaughter Jeweliana, his daughter Toni Bryant from Missouri and his two grandsons Cody and Benjamin Bryant. His son Jerry Martin is from the state of Washington. He is also survived by his two sisters Mary Su Paine and Nancy Kaan, as well as many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

He will be missed by all who knew him for his happy disposition and love of life.