Martin Pakledinaz

I remember Marty when he was a boy and I was 12 years older. My life was full at that time with my own stuff, and Marty was just another one of my cousins. I never saw him again until I paid respects to his Mom, my Aunt Dorothy. I remember her telling me how proud she was of Marty as he flourished in his career, and I made note of that. When Marty and I spoke after her death, I was impressed with him and the way he carried himself. He struck me as being very perceptive, thoughtful, and well versed on many subjects. He truly did earn a well-deserved niche among his peers and in the creative community. He will certainly be missed.

Marty was the most talented designer I have ever had the opportunity to work with, and I am so sad about his passing. Over the past twenty five years, I had the privilege of working on a dozen different projects with him. Marty always pushed those around him to work at a higher level than we thought possible, and the results were stunning costumes with the most interesting details and style lines.

Marty's sketches from over the years grace the walls of the Seattle Opera's costume shop; we treasure these reminders of our time with him.

Marty will be missed more than my words can say.

Martin was the best...The girls in the American Ballroom Theater company loved everything he ever did for them. He will be missed and remembered as an incredible designer. RIP Marty, Gary Pierce

Martin Pakledinaz was a wonderful man, a good friend, and a very gifted artist. In 1985, he gave me my first job as Hair Designer in the theater. It was the Off-Broadway production of "Surf City;" the Beach Boys' musical at the Entermedia Theatre, directed by Dennis Rosa. Working on that show was insane, but Martin and I had a blast, swimming with silk sharks and surfing our way through the insanity.

Martin and I worked on other projects through the years even after my career shifted to photography. I always enjoyed collaborating with Martin. He was a great, intelligent conversationalist. He had a delightful sense of humor, with just the right dose of wicked. He gave really smart advice. And then there was the majesty in his art.

I feel very lucky. Martin gave me a few sketches through the years, and I will treasure those exceptional works forever. I will never forget our time working together or the time we shared as friends. I am deeply saddened by the news of Martin's death. I loved this special man and I will miss him.

Marc Daniels
marcdanielsnyc at yahoo dot com