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Martin Massman Obituary

January 6, 1947 - December 6, 2014 Beloved family member, successful businessman, and prolific Broadway producer Martin Massman, 67, passed away at his Los Angeles home on December 6, after a short battle with cancer. A man of many accomplishments, in 1975 Martin and his brother Bruce founded M & B Mini Blinds, which the brothers sold in 1990. Martin went on to start a new concept for movie theaters and founded Studio Movie Grill. As Martin's successes grew, he gave back with both his time and support to his chosen causes. Steadfastly dedicated to the arts, the native Angeleno was an alumnus of the University of Southern California where he was a member of the USC Scholarship Club, an Endowment Donor to the USC football program, and a longtime member of USC's School of Dramatic Arts Board of Councilors. As a Broadway producer Martin's credits include "Of Mice and Men" starring James Franco and Chris O'Dowd, "The Glass Menagerie" starring Cherry Jones and Zachary Quinto, "Buyer and Cellar" with Michael Urie, Gore Vidal's "The Best Man" and "Porgy and Bess." Martin is survived by his partner, Mike Hiles; brothers, Stephen (Donna) and Bruce (Sandra) Massman; nephews, Mike, Brent, Matt and Travis Massman; and his close friend, Ron Nakagawa. Martin was preceded in death by his father, Jack, in 1991 and his mother, Ann E., earlier this year. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Center Theatre Group at the Music Center (213.628.2772) or Temple of the Arts (323.658.9100). To honor Martin's request, no services will be held.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Dec. 11, 2014.

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Joe Guzzardi

December 5, 2023

Martin was a dear family friend.

December 5, 2019

I worked with Martin through the 1980's and was always impressed with the "family" atmosphere of the M&B company. Not just the two brothers who built the company, but personal touches. Touches which included:

Annual day-long company picnic - which even included transportation to/from the site. I was honored to be able to attend and participate in a rollicking good time with hundreds of employees with their families.

On a business trip to Las Vegas, he had a trusted colleague (Ron?) play the $1 slot machine at a casino - one play for each employee - where any winnings were set aside for the lucky (and surprised) winners.

These are some workplace memories of a very special boss.

ALEXANDER B

March 15, 2017

Very Sad I just found about his passing today.
Martin was truly a gifted entrepreneur and a compassionate person. I met him while a UCLA student 20 years ago. I had the privilege of having lunch with him dozens of times over the years, and take his knowledge help mature my career into a C level executive and entrepreneur myself.
He mentored me for years. He taught me how to think big but with attributes of integrity, honesty and perseverance. He always spoke about his brother Bruce, his business partner Brian from Studio Movie Grill and things from Banana bytes to the M&B. Truly sad to see him pass and only to find out years later. I miss his yearly Christmas cards from PENTHOUSE B. If anyone likes would be nice for a group of us to remember him one day over lunch.

Ian Marsh

December 22, 2016

Martin and I were business partners for a few years. I just found out about his passing and saddened that we were not in touch more often.

Robin Connelly

September 7, 2016

From 1993 through 2000 I worked for Martin -- who lived, breathed, and emoted his dynamic spirit. His office door was always open and he was always willing to talk, from the arcane (do I need 9 shades of "white" aluminum for blinds) to personal life and the interesting people, places and things in his life. He will be missed in this life, but as I am sure he would acknowledge that I believe we will see each other again, in a revised and better edition.

(the photo attached is of Martin and his new Colibra just arriving in Lake Arrowhead. We could hear it coming a block away)

Richard Eshoo

February 11, 2016

To Mike:
I just discovered of Martin's passing.
Martin not only gave me my 1stjob in Los Angeles @ M&B, but was able to open an acct w/his company, of which he said, "That credit limit's not big enough. Let's fix that." That 'fix' helped me to create one incredible design biz, and for that, I will not only be eternally grateful, but pray I can 'pay it forward' just as he did.

My thoughts and condolences to you, Mike. Martin was and always will be a true gem among gems.

May 17, 2015

Martin my love I will never forget u am so glad that I got the chance to know u and mlke u are one of a kind. Rest in peace my love. Mike we need to keep in touch l miss talking to u there is so much I have to say, I miss u please reach out. Thelma Gordon 323-6773858

Alan Ho

January 8, 2015

You are sadly missed Martin. Wish I could have known you better.

Anthony Vega

January 7, 2015

You have been my very good friend, mentor in business and in life, and always there when I needed you for the 10 years I have known you. You treated me with respect but provided a fatherly voice when you felt I needed it. You will be so immensely missed by me and all those who knew you well. My deepest condolences to Martin's family, Ron his very good friend and his partner, Mike.

Mark Shanker

January 6, 2015

Rest in peace Martin.

There were some good times UTF and some great times after.

Richard & Mark

Michele Muse-Brackett

January 5, 2015

It is with fondness I remember you and sadness for those who will miss you so dearly. Such a kind hearted spirit.

January 3, 2015

Rest in Peace Martin. Thank you for always making me smile.

John Dayton

December 29, 2014

Who else would pitch a roll across a table at a chic event. I am oh so sorry I only knew you for a short time. No ego here, just a sweet, sweet spirit. I will miss you until we meet again on the other side. With LOve, John Dayton

John Dayton

December 29, 2014

Who else would trow a roll across the table at an elegant affair. I am only sorry we got to know each other for such a short time. No ego with you, just a sweet spirit. You will be missed. In love, John Dayton

joe Guzzardi

December 26, 2014

Martin was a wonderful friend to my dear mother Betty, and a joy to everyone in our family.

He will be deeply missed.

Justice Laub

December 17, 2014

You will always live in my memory as one of the most inspirational and kind people I have had the honor of working with.. Thank you for being yourself:)

December 15, 2014

You helped me in a very difficult time of my life Martin. I will always appreciate that...You had a big heart and you will be missed. Dave Borelli (Calif)

Gloria Maxwell-Welsh

December 13, 2014

Martin, you are the epitome of a gentleman and friend. I'm so grateful for your friendship to our family.

Gillian Doyle

December 12, 2014

I am overwhelmed by your passing as I was anticipating your annual Christmas card and looking forward to catching up after you recovered from surgery. I feel rather lost and can't believe I won't hear your voice again. Amazingly you never missed any of my plays and always cheered the loudest and each time you badgered me to move to NYC until I finally believed you. Thank you for taking me to Oregon Shakespeare and sharing so many good times. I will miss you madly but know you have met my Dad by now and that you'll both be waiting when the time comes. You were one of the greats my friend and you will always be with me on and off stage. With love and hugs. XO

Jim Royce

December 12, 2014

Martin lived his life to the fullest. Ever patient, always giving, a true friend and colleague. He will be missed by so many people. Rest in peace my friend. Your light will forever shine.

Adele Robbins

December 12, 2014

I am so sorry to hear of Martin's passing. Every experience I had with him, from dinner at his home, to a chance meeting in a theatre lobby, to receiving yearly Christmas cards, was generous, sincere, warm, welcoming, inclusive and loving. And such a great sense of humor! A true human being. Thank you, Martin, for all you gave and all you did. Your impact will be felt always. Love, Adele Robbins

Carol

December 12, 2014

Studio Movie Grill is one of my favorite places to catch a movie. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting you my son spoke of you often. I thank you for being his friend and watching out for him when he moved to Los Angeles. My thoughts and prayers to your family and friends.

Jon Boy

December 12, 2014

You are one of the best people I've had the pleasure to call my friend. Continue creating on the other side. Miss you

December 12, 2014

Martin was a wonderful giving man.He was n exceptional friend to my son ,Darren Bagert, He will be greatly missed.

December 12, 2014

Martin was a very giving man .He was a wonderful friend to my son ,Darren Bagert,. He will be greatly missed.

Mateo

December 12, 2014

Martin you da man! Thanks for the memories

steve rosenthal

December 11, 2014

Martin had such a positive presence. He will be missed.

Ken Hooper

December 11, 2014

Although I personally never met him my condolences go out to his Partner and Family and my Friend Randle Roper who expressed what a wonderful man and Dear Friend he lost. Eternal Life Martin.

Barabra Schwartz

December 11, 2014

You will be missed, Martin.

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