GILBERT "MARTIN" OWEN

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GILBERT OWEN Obituary

GILBERT OWEN
MARTIN

Nov. 2, 1953 - Jan. 25, 2015

On January 25, 2015, Gilbert Owen Martin, passed unexpectedly at the age of 61. Gil is survived by his sister Debbie Thomas of Paso Robles, CA and Victoria Hicks of Brisbane, Australia; his son Steven Whitaker of Yucaipa, CA; grandchildren Jayden and Koston Whitaker; nephew/nieces Don and Suzy Wharton of Brawley, CA, Dana and Terra Wharton of Imperial, CA; great-nephews, Donnie and Hunter Wharton. He was preceded in death by brother Donald L. Wharton, father and mother, Gilbert and Mary Catherine Martin of Covina.
Gil was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 2, 1953. He graduated from Bishop Amat Memorial High School in 1971. He attended University of San Francisco before he moved back to Southern California to work in the custom auto industry. He moved on to work in national sales with extensive travel all over the country representing well-known products such as EZ-Up. Most recent, Gil worked in the air ambulance critical care transportation business which brought him great joy to make a difference in people's lives.
Gil had a lifelong passion for sports. After participating in various youth and High School level sports, he directed his love for sports towards baseball. He coached over 30 years of baseball at multiple levels, from Little League through High School. Although he enjoyed each and every season he was most proud of the 1995 City Championship team that went 24-0. Most recently, Gil coached at Brawley Union High School including one season with his nephew. Gil was an avid Steelers, Lakers, and UCLA fan. However, the Dodgers will remain #1 in his heart. Gil would religiously watched most of the 162 games each season. Beyond sports, Gil was a lifelong river rat. He was a proud boat owner and enjoyed spending most of his weekends floating down the Colorado River with his river-family and friends.
Gil Martin touched each and every life that he came across. He will be sorely missed by all his family and friends. The world is truly missing a wonderful human being. May God rest his soul and grant him everlasting life. Hugs-Laughter-Love
A memorial service will be held Monday, February 2, 2015 at 11 a.m. at Forest Lawn Covina Chapel in Covina, CA.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Imperial Valley Press Online on Jan. 29, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for GILBERT OWEN

6 Entries

Jerry & Jenny Timmerman

February 1, 2015

Donnie, Suzy, Donald & Hunter, we feel so very fortunate to have met and enjoyed a few moments of the joy that you brought to the all too short life of Gil, a joy that spilled out of him in return. Be consoled in that your family gave him this most precious gift. Know that we and your Falcon football family grieve with you and hold you in our prayers.

January 30, 2015

We would like to send our condolences to the Wharton family. "Uncle Gill" as so many lovingly referred to him, touched many young lives during his time here on Earth! He had a unique way of making each athlete he coached feel like a Superstar. :) His wonderful dedication and understanding of our community's youth should be an inspiration to us all. Rest in Peace Uncle Gill. We will miss you.

Kirk, Debbie Hale & Boys

Tom Reynoso

January 30, 2015

I am so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful person. I did not know Gil as well as many others which of course is my loss. The simple fact that he was as loved and held in such warm requard by so many speaks volumes about his character and the way he lived his life. He was truely a special man and will sorely be missed by all. Our loss is heavens gain.. Good bye Uncle Gil

January 30, 2015

I love you Uncle Gil, you were a sweet soul that could light up a room! We are going to miss you so much. Cheers...

Cindy Tengler

January 30, 2015

I am sad to hear about the passing of Gil. I met him through the REACH program here in the Imperial Valley. He was such a nice and kind person who cared about helping others. Please know that your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

January 29, 2015

I'm so sorry for your loss. I can only imagine what you and your family are going through. May the God of all comfort strengthen you at this time, 2 Thessalonians 2:16&17.

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