Robert E. Martin Robert (Bob) Earl Martin, 85, passed away at his home in Puyallup, WA Tuesday, January 10, 2017. Robert was preceded in death by his wife and best friend Joan E. Martin (2006). A service will be held Monday, January 23, 2017, at 2:30 pm, Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th St., Kent, WA 98042. Robert was born in Springfield, MA November 14, 1931 to Arthur George Martin and Ethel May Kennedy. He left home at 15 to enter the military. Bob served the National Guard, the Navy, and Air Force, and traveled extensively throughout his years of service. He spent time in Cuba, Korea, Vietnam, Egypt, and Japan, and lived with his family in both England and Spain. After retiring from the military Bob worked for the Washington State Employment Security Department. He retired as Assistant State Director for the US Department of Labor, Veterans Division in Washington State. Bob, and his best friend and wife Joan, spent several years volunteering their time and energy to veterans' organizations. Robert is survived by two of his five siblings, Marion Krause, Massachusetts and David Martin, Florida; and his four children, Steven Martin (Bethany), Kalama, WA; Kathleen Pendrak (Michael), Edgewood, WA; Kelly Martin (Maureen), Bellevue, WA, and Teresa Austin, Puyallup, WA. Bob had 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He will be sorely missed by those who loved him. Should friend or family desire, in lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or any veterans organization, in remembrance of Bob.

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Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Jan. 21, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for ROBERT MARTIN

Sponsored by Powers Funeral Home.

8 Entries

Jacob Holeman, Adjutant

January 30, 2017

The Officers and Members of Harmony Chapter No. 18 of the Disabled American Veterans join in extending Heartfelt Sympathy to you and your family in this Hour of Sorrow.

November 14, 2016 85th birthday. Bob shared the same day of birth with his son Kelly, his granddaughter Meaghan and his niece.

Teresa Austin

January 23, 2017

Kelly Martin

January 23, 2017

I will miss you Dad. I enjoyed our weekly talks these past years during those evening commutes. You were my "go to guy" for any questions involving the magic of electricity. Years ago, you showed me that with a little hard work, the right tools and some direction a guy could fix or build just about anything. Your stories, I really got to know a side of you I never saw or knew existed. Thank you. Rest in Peace - you did well!

Shannon Martin Levesque

January 22, 2017

Rest in peace, Uncle Robert. May the family find comfort and love from the prayers we are all sending your way.

January 21, 2017

Not only was he my loving Grandfather, but he was my bestfriend as well. Not only did I learn how to be over the top sarcastic, stubborn, and just all around sassy from him, but I learned how to be kind even when you wanted to tell someone off. He taught me to always stick up for myself and to never let anyone push me down. To always stand back up and that even if you are stubborn, you still can learn how to ask for help. Words cannot express the impact he had on my life and how much he meant to me, I love you forever Grandpa, thanks for letting me share your birthday.
Your Little Buddy (aka little cheese)
Meaghan

Teresa

January 21, 2017

I love you beyond words, Dad. I miss you every day along with your stories, words of wisdom and even your sarcasm. Thank you for everything. I am so glad we had the time we had the last few years to just talk. It was my honor to know you. I am so glad you are at peace now. You will be missed every day, but I look forward to the day we will see each other again.

January 21, 2017

"Just living the dream" almost every conversation I had with my brother began with those words. The irony was he did just that...from a very difficult childhood to obtaining Masters degrees while a life time service to his country. He never understood "can't". His determination was his lifestyle. He left home early when I was young but I always thought he was awesome. I send my best to his family you had a very special person in your lives. Proud to say,sister which he always called me. Marion

January 21, 2017

I'm deeply sorry for the loss of your loved one.May loving words comfort your family at this time of sorrow. (Isaiah 57:15)

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