Martin Joseph Steiner

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Martin Joseph (Marty) Steiner, III on February 22, 2022, at the age of 52 in Bellingham, WA. Marty was born on October 3, 1969, in Mount Vernon, WA to Martin and Shirley Steiner of Mount Vernon.  Despite the challenges of his last days, Marty remained strong and brave and came out a hero. 

As a child, Marty proclaimed his goal of being a police officer like those on “CHiPs.”  Before graduating from Burlington-Edison High School in 1988, Marty started at the Skagit County Sheriff’s department as an Explorer Cadet. Shortly after, he became a reserve deputy in 1991 and a corrections deputy in 1992. In 1995, he started as a patrol deputy. He spent 30 years employed by the Skagit County Sheriff’s department, retiring in August of 2021. His time included 26 years on patrol, 12 different positions and specialties and countless hours as a mentor. He saved lives and risked his own life every day, loving every minute of it. 

Finding beauty in nature and the thrill of a challenge, Marty enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, golfing, riding quads, and general mischief.  He was a member of the Skagit County Golf and Country Club and Search and Rescue. He had an uncanny ability to find happiness in daily activities.  As his niece proclaimed, “Family gatherings will not be the same without you, Uncle Marty.”  Marty would lighten up the room with his laugh and a “smart” comment.  The way he would cover his mouth and let out a big snicker will be remembered with a smile on our faces. He was the first one there when you needed him in a crisis of health, of safety, of identity, of midlife, and of home improvement, especially flooring! Marty cared deeply about and was fiercely protective of his family.  Marty is survived by his parents Martin Joseph Steiner, Jr., and Shirley Steiner. His sisters Deb (Mike) Eaton, Rose (Ted) Goeres, Valerie Steiner, Teresa (Chantel) Steiner-Van Dyk, Mary (Jared) Green, his brother Jeff (Sarah) Steiner, his daughter Brianna (John) McKiernan and son Tyson Steiner, his grandchildren Aidan, Davin, and Bailey, his fiancée Kenzie Romero and her daughters Klaire and Lauryn, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother Kenneth Steiner.  

Knowing that Marty has positively impacted many lives of the people of Skagit County, after a private family ceremony, Marty will be honored at a public celebration of life open house at VanderVeen Farms in Mount Vernon (15633 Memorial Highway) from 1-4 on Saturday, March 12.  

In lieu of gifts and flowers, please feel free to make donations in Marty’s name to Shop with a Cop and the Rangers Group. 

Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register.

Arrangements are under the care of Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mount Vernon, WA.