James Kay Martens

1938 - 2020

James Kay Martens

August 4, 1938-November 30, 2020

Jim Martens passed away suddenly 11-30-20. He was preceded in death by his parents Celista and Riley Martens, first wife Connie Martens and brother Kay Martens. He is survived by wife Patricia Martens, daughters Claudette (Michael) Gribbin and Paula Martens, step children Chrissy (Robbie) Wilkoff, Mike (Lily) O'Connor, James (Sandy) O'Connor, and 9 grandchildren. Jim was born and raised in Davenport, Iowa. He was a veteran of both the Marines and the Army. Jim was on his way from Iowa to California in the mid 1960's when he passed through Arizona and decided he had found his new home. He met Ron Jensen and together they founded Computer Graphics, which became their passion for the next 30 years. They built it from 2 employees to 80+ in its heyday. Jim ran his company like he lived his life; full of fun, laughter, and expecting the best.

He was a member of Mensa and of the Sigma Nu fraternity. As a lifelong learner, James was an ardent supporter of Arizona State University and of education in general. He loved animals of all kinds and they loved him back. He loved to live life by traveling, having fun and attending or hosting events.

His weekly bike rides through the Scottsdale Greenbelt, with his dear friends, were a highlight of his week. Jim was generous and loyal to those lucky enough to know him. There is not enough space in the paper to describe how much he meant to us and how big of a chasm his passing has left. He was a hero, a confidant, a mentor, and a leader. Jim was deeply loved and loved deeply. A private funeral has been held and a public memorial will be held in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to juvenile diabetes (www.jrdf.org), Liberty Wildlife (www.libertywildlife.salsalabs.org) or Better Piggies Rescue (www.betterpiggiesrescue.org).