Martin Hausted Johnsen Graves

Martin Hausted Johnsen Graveside services for Martin Johnsen, 89, of Solvang will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 27,2010, at the Oakhill Cemetery in Ballard. Martin passed away on Sunday, May 9th at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital. Martin was born on May 6, 1921 to Peder and Johanne Johnsen. The Johnsen family, including Martin's two sisters - Ellen and Laura - immigrated from Denmark to America in 1927. A second generation master mason, Peder kept quite busy doing brick fireplaces and walls, plastering, tile and stonework. He also designed a round brick water tank which was topped by a dome. Martin learned these masonry skills from his father, and continued with the family business until his retirement in 1983. This underground brick cistern is still being built today. His son and grandson continue the family tradition as fourth and fifth generation masonry contractors. Martin married his Santa Ynez High School sweetheart, Lelah Ross, in 1942. His greatest joys were diving, fishing, hunting, and camping. Martin was predeceased by his wife, Lelah, and his sister, Ellen Knight. He is survived by his sister, Laura Deputy; his son, Bob (Pam) Johnsen; and his daughter Joan (Ed) Edman. Martin's four grandsons are Jeff (Renee) and Dan Edman, and Bob and Brian (Janalee) Johnsen. He also has four great-granddaughters - Colby, Cayden and Kinsley Edman, and Claire Johnsen. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Valley Haven or a charity of your choice. A barbecue luncheon will follow the services at Hans Christian Andersen Park, group area "D."