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Martin Townsend Obituary
Visitation will be at 5 p.m. Thursday at Witzleben Legacy Funeral Home, 1707 S. Bragaw St.
Martin was born Nov. 4, 1942, in Iron River, Wis. He graduated from Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, in 1961. He joined the U.S. Air Force and married Karan, his wife of 45 years. When the opportunity to come to Alaska came up, "he jumped on it," his family said. He and his family drove up the Alaska Highway in 1978. Martin loved Alaska so much that he retired from the Air Force here in September 1984.
Martin worked for the state of Alaska Department of Labor as a veterans representative until he retired in 2004. He was passionate about the work he did with the veterans of Alaska, his family said, and won an Outstanding Service Provider award from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Martin was a member of American Legion Post 0506, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5002, Masons Lodge 325 and the Anchorage Corvette Club.
He loved coin collecting, Hard Rock Cafe pin collections and traveling.
His family said: "Dad was our rock. He touched many lives. No matter where he went, he ran into somebody he knew. He will be missed more than words can say."
He is survived by his wife, Karan; daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Scott Mitchell; son and daughter-in-law, Doug and Bonna Townsend; daughter and son-in-law, Dena and Jae Naehu; grandchildren, Dustin and wife Crystal, Greg and wife Cassandra Mitchell, Lynnsey Mitchell, Hunter and Tyler Townsend, and Jayln, Kylie and Kona Naehu; great-grandchild, Aubree Mitchell; sisters, Maureen Remmes, Renee Burns and Sheila Harker; brother, George Townsend; mother-in-law, Thelma Long; and many dear relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Vivian Townsend.
Memorial donations may be made to the Providence Foundation, 3200 Providence Drive, Anchorage 99508.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Witzleben Legacy Funeral Home.
For online obituary and condolences, contact www.alaskafuneralhomes.net.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Martin Townsend
Lois Whittaker
November 20, 2008
Dear Karan, Ramon and I want to say how sorry we are to hear about Marty! We miss you two so much. Marty and you have always treated us like family. May God take you in His loving arms and give you comfort.
Lois and Ramon Whittaker
Doug Townsend
November 12, 2008
Gods will has changed our lives forever I wish I knew the plan for the future. Thinking about how many things that have just stopped like hearing your voice or being able to ask your advice, this is my lonely place that can never be changed. After the Service is over and the loved ones continue with their lives the emptiness that is felt is unexplainable. However, we are a close-knit family this loss has brought us closer than ever but without you to show the way things will never be the same. Thanks for all you taught me I will do my best to press on.
Carol Naehu
November 11, 2008
As the weeks go by the sorrow is still so deep. I see the pain in Nana's eyes and also in dear Dena. I wish I could take away all the pain and sorrow but only time and God will heal their broken hearts. I am here if you need me, a shoulder to cry on or an ear to laugh, talk and reminise about our dear Marty. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. Karan call me when you need my chicken long rice.
Marla Leabhart
November 11, 2008
Marty, Your passing has left a hole in many a heart, but not as large as my best friend Karan. My promise to you is that I will do all that is in my power to help her through her pain and sorrow. I want to thank you for taking me into your home some 20 years ago and letting me become part of your family. I will always remember our trips, but most of all our times sitting on the deck, just passing time. I'll never forget the medallions in the sun. Until we meet again in a special place. With all my heart, Marla
Dena Naehu
November 9, 2008
Things are slowly starting to get a little bit more managable but it still sucks with out your imput I LOVE YOU DADDY WITH ALL MY HEART, Please watch over my two teenage daughters and teach them the type of person you made me into
Terry Leabhart
November 6, 2008
Hey Buddy, Thank you, for everything, if not for you I would never have gotten where I am today, helping me, sharing your entire family, mostly the kids and the grandbabies. The great vacations Vegas and the drives to Laughlin Mo and John and Wally World never a dull moment, I will always be your friend! Most of all to you Karan thank you for letting Marty come out and play!
Karan Townsend
November 4, 2008
My Dear Sweet Marty
You gave me the most wonderful life anyone could imagine. Thank you for creating such a beautiful family. You were and still are my life, my rock, and my best friend. I love you more then words can express. See you in my dreams. Happy Birthday Honey
Love Ya with all my heart
Karan
Bonna Townsend
November 4, 2008
Marty,
I don't know if I will ever be able to put into words how much I Love and Miss you. You have been such a huge part of my life and I want to Thank you for being such a great Papa to the boys. Please keep them under your safety as they grow to be men. I promise to always keep you part of their memories I pray they grow up to be as good a man as you were. I Love you Grump.
Bonna
Debbie Mitchell
November 4, 2008
Happy Birthday Dad!
I miss you so much, so much left undone. We will do our best to carry on and keep you close to our hearts. I love you!
Doug Townsend
November 4, 2008
Dad, Happy Birthday.
I love you and miss you and I am lost without you Thanks for the sign that you are watching over us. I will do my best to make you proud you are my hero.
Love always your son.
Dena Naehu
November 4, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!! I miss you soo much. I'm trying to be as strong as i can but it just isn't working out very well. I feel completely lost without You I Love U More than you"ll ever know
Papa and Aubree July 2007
November 3, 2008
John M. Hurst
November 3, 2008
Karan,
Marty touched many lives and left a little piece of himself with each and everyone of us. From his great dishes for the Pot Lucks to the great laughs with his quick wit; Marty never let anyone feel as though they were left out. "Hey Jeep" means much more to me than I can express. This was Marty's signature that made him so lovable to all that met him. Thank you for sharing him with my family! Bobbi and I send our deepest sympathy to you and the rest of the Townsend family!
Maureen Remmes
November 2, 2008
As I flew home on on friday, I could see the sun setting on the horizan over Alaska and I was sad to leave my "Alaska" family. I left a piece of my heart with you for safe keeping until we meet again. I know you are with Mom and Dad now and watching over us all, this makes it just a little easier.
I watched you family and friends and I know how much love you had surrounding you in life..a testament of a great man. We will really miss you, but will remember the good times in Hawaii and Las Vegas..and trips to Texas..and Iowa.
I will always be there for Karan and families..something you held so near and dear to your heart..we are all a little better for having you in our lives..
PS. David took care and made sure that Renee and I had plenty of his salmon to take home with us on our flights home, something you always insisted upon..always such a treat fo us.
Rest in Peace dear brother...Maureen
Kim Chaney
November 2, 2008
Aunty Karan . . . I can't imagine what you are going through right now, but know that you are loved by many, near and far. Uncle Marty was a wonderful man and he will be dearly missed.
Dena . . . thank you for sharing your dad with our family. I have nothing but fond memories of him and I feel priviledged to have known him.
Jayln, Kylie, and Kona . . . Be Strong. I know it hurts, I've been there. But you have a family that loves you very much and will be there to support you. Don't be afraid to tell someone you love them, and hug those close to you every chance you get. If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here.
Jae . . . my dear cousin. Be the Rock your family needs right now, and know that we are right there to support you. The tough times are what makes us stronger. I love you more than you know.
Randy & Jackie Mitchell
October 31, 2008
Karan,
Our prayers are with you and your family. We share in your sorrow and know that God will bring comfort to you all during this time of remembrance and celebration of Marty's life.
I'll always remember him for his humor and for opening your hearts and home to us during the few times we were able to visit. Even though we were distant relatives through geography, you have both always been another set of parents to me and especially Scott.
Thanks for your friendship, your warmth and for sharing Debbie and the grandkids with us!
I pray God's peace upon you and pray you find comfort that He is never far from us when we seek Him.
Love you.
Judy Otteson
October 30, 2008
I worked a few feet away from Marty at the Anchorge Vet Center for years. Not once did I hear him complain, or even scowl! He was fun to work with, one of the people I missed the most after moving to Yakima. and one of those I'd hoped to visit while on a return trip.The world's an sadder place without him, and I wish his family well during this difficult time.
Jim Connor
October 30, 2008
Marty,
You will be missed. I met you while I was working for the Dept. of Labor in Anchorage, when you first came aboard. Your sense of humor always kept me going, and your ability and persistence to assist the local veteran, as well as your co-workers. You are now in a better place!
My condolences to the family.
vicki williams
October 29, 2008
Karan, My heart goes out to you. Losing your best friend is so hard. Marty was a great guy. I always loved seeing the two of you come in together to Penney's so he could get you something pretty. You always looked totally happy together. I will miss his big smile and hearty laugh. Karan, you and your family are in my prayers.
kathy taunton
October 29, 2008
Karen , I enjoyed our talks about martyand your trips.
I will miss cutting his curls.
Kathy,
lana jones-edwards
October 29, 2008
My condolences to the family. Marty was so friendly and such a sweet man at the Dept of Labor.
Cindy Say
October 29, 2008
Marty,
I remember your great big smile and laugh! Rest in peace.
Karan,
Let my Mom give you a hug for me. We all love you.
Caryn Gibson
October 29, 2008
Karan, Although I only met Marty once or twice, he was a joy to meet. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.
Joyce (Evenrude) Von Borstel
October 28, 2008
Though I have never met Martin, my cousin, I have fond memories of my mother talking about his dad when I was grewing up. I wished I could have known him. Maybe someday I will.
My love to the family.
Kona Naehu
October 28, 2008
I love you and miss you grandpa
John F. Remmes
October 28, 2008
Martin I will miss the chance of many trips we could have taken. I just retired too late to really enjoy the time with you. I am glad to have known such an individual so full of life. It sure would have made more sense if you were in the stands at Texas Motor Speedway this weekend but you may have the best seat in the house.
David (papagrump) Schenk
October 28, 2008
A "One in a Million" who will be missed
Thanks for being yourself
Dawn Hutchinson
October 28, 2008
Karan, Deena & Townsend Ohana, it was our blessing to have known such a wonderful man. He will be truly missed. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Aloha from Dawn, Nicholas & Kaipo.
Char Rich
October 28, 2008
Aloha Karan, You and your family our in our prayers. Marty will be greatly missed here in Hawaii but will live on in our memories. Love always Char
Christine Mason
October 28, 2008
Karan, I am holding you and your family close to my heart and in my Prayers. I am soo grateful you and Marty had the opportunity to PLAY since your retirement. May Marty's "Essence" be felt in all the family's comings and goings. Much love and heart felt Sympathies.
Stephanie Blount
October 28, 2008
Karen and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Robert and I feel that your loss is also the loss a of good friend. Marty will be missed, but never gone from our hearts. Our love to all of you.
Robert and Stephanie Blount
Cindy Hughes
October 28, 2008
Karan, I never met Marty but from working with you I know that he had to be a very special man for him to be so loved by all the friends and family that have written. Thinking of you all.
Debbie Grediagin
October 28, 2008
Marty was wonderful to be around. Everytime he came in to our office, he was cheerful and upbeat. I will truly miss this! To Karan and family - my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Janet Say
October 28, 2008
Marty,
You will be missed greatly by all of us here at Providence. Your warm smile and heart and great sense of humor will always be in our hearts.
Tom Hall
October 28, 2008
I worked with Marty as a veterans' employment representative for many years. He was, without question, one of the finest human beings I have ever met. He will be missed, especially that sense of humor!
Mike Shearer
October 28, 2008
Marty and Karen, You are good friends and your loss is a loss to us all. Marty was a great Corvette Friend, and I always felt he kept us going. Enjoy the streets paved of gold Marty and rip them up in the corvette of your choice!
Deborah Roberts Burt
October 27, 2008
Karen, I never had the opportunity to meet you, but Marty knew me as "Mom". He was one of my sweet vet reps! I loved his wonderful nature and how he cared about his veteran clients. He always had a smile and a warm hello for me when I would visit Anchorage or he would come to Juneau for Veteran meetings. I send lots of good memories to you on the ten plus years I worked with him, as it was always a pleasure to have him on board! Agape, Deborah Roberts Burt (past Alaskan Veteran Cordinator)
Kim Phillips
October 27, 2008
I am sorry to hear about Marty, he was a great guy. I worked with him at the Dept of Labor. I'm glad he was able to retire and hope he was about to enjoy it. He will be missed.
Marilee Williams
October 27, 2008
I worked with Marty at DOL - what a great guy! My heart goes out to Karan and all his family at this sad time.
Helen Richards
October 27, 2008
So sorry to hear about Marty. He was so good to us veterans and will be missed.
julie Latuska
October 27, 2008
I will always remember the fun trips we had in whittier with the corvette club. Karen, my prayers are with you. sending hugs to you...Julie Latuska
Akagi 'Ohana
October 27, 2008
Townsend 'Ohana, Your 'ohana here in Hawaii send you ALL our love and prayers, Marty will be missed and we send our blessings to Karan & the family. Love, Dean&Angel and our 'Ohana
John Lime
October 27, 2008
Marty, you were such a selfless person, always putting veterans first and assisting them in so many wonderful ways. You will be missed, and I would like to say I wish that I could be half of what you were.
Michael & Nancy Lamoreaux
October 27, 2008
Our prayers go to Marty's family. He was a fine man and his passing will be felt throughout the community.
Nancy Heckmann
October 27, 2008
I'm very sorry for your loss. Marty was a wonderful person. We worked together for the Department of Labor for many years and he was by far, one of the best Veterans Representatives the Department of Labor ever had. They broke the mold after him. I'm blessed to have know him.
ANNE WILLIAMS
October 27, 2008
I WILL TRULY MISS THE LONG CONVERSATIONS WITH MR. TOWNSEND. HE WAS ALWAYS THE SUNSHINE IN A DULL BUSY DAY! HIS KINDNESS AND FRIENDSHIP WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM, ESPECIALLY ME!! ANNE/PROCARE HOME MEDICAL!
Blaise & Carol Naehu
October 27, 2008
Marty will always share a special place in our hearts. He was more than a dear friend, he was and always will be part of our "ohana".
Love and miss you.
The Naehu's
Joe Inama
October 27, 2008
Marty you were a good friend. I always appreaciated your friendship. You and Karen will be in my prayers. God speed my friend.
Dianne Sanchez
October 27, 2008
Uncle Martin will be missed dearly by his family. We will miss his trips with Karen to Vegas. He could always make me laugh and I am so glad to have very fond memories of him in Hawaii and Vegas. We will miss him very much.
Sergio, Dianne, Emma and John
Kris Harker
October 27, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family and friends. Martin will be greatly missed. He was such a wonderful and hilarious man.
Gary, Kris, Lynetta, Danielle, Casie, Benjamin, Austin and Keith
Mike Dillingham
October 26, 2008
Marty, a good friend and great co-worker
October 26, 2008
Thinking of you today with deep and sincere sympathy.
Uncle Walter and Irma
Tami & Robert Ruhs
October 26, 2008
Marti was a wonderful person and we were blessed to have known him. He will be greatly missed. We will keep Karen and the family in our thoughts and prayers.
trayce miles
October 26, 2008
Goodbye to a larger than life uncle. You will be missed by many! Thank you for the memories.
Rick, Trayce, Andrew and Alexandria Miles
Elizabeth Remmes
October 26, 2008
My sympathies go out to the entire family of Martin Townsend. My sister-in-law Maureen told many wonderful stories about him and she will miss him terribly. Love, Betty Remmes
Vickie Lampe
October 26, 2008
Our sympathies to all of Martins' family, especially our cousin, Maureen Remmes, and all of her family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat and Vickie Lampe, Aunt Irene Laubscher
John Remmes
October 26, 2008
He will surely be missed... He has a special place in my heart.
John Remmes
Austin, TX
RENEE BURNS
October 26, 2008
MARTIN YOU WILL BE MISSED. IM SORRY NOW FOR THE TIMES WE DIDNT SPEND TOGETHER
Maureen Remmes
October 26, 2008
You were always bigger than life in my eyes..you will always be so missed..part of our family chain is broken..I am goiong to miss you so much,,no one to give me a hard time now. Love love..you sis< maureen
Jennifer Barnwell
October 26, 2008
Wonderful and funny Uncle Martin. He can always bring a smile to my face. Wonderful family man and loved his family very much. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
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