Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Martin Fujiki Obituary
Before all else, Martin was a family man. He was married to his personal and professional partner - and the love of his life - Bonnie, for 40 years. He cherished his personal and professional time with Bonnie and was always the first to express admiration for her brilliance and creativity. They were a devoted couple, and Martin never missed an opportunity to express his love for Bonnie. He was also incredibly proud of his three children, Nathan, Bob, and Amanda - who adored him. He was a devoted father who never missed a basketball game, musical theater performance, or school event - no matter how remote the location or questionable the quality. He also loved his children-in-law, Peter and Christina, whom he considered his own.
Martin developed his work ethic growing up on a farm in Rupert Idaho with his beloved parents and siblings, Cory, Dianne, and Kent. He was the consummate big brother, developing games for and entertaining his younger brothers and sister. On the farm, he developed a love of 60's & 70's rock, sports, dinosaurs, ships, electronics, and a passion to pursue a career outside of farm work.
Professionally, Martin worked as Professor of Communication Disorders and licensed speech-language pathologist for over 40 years. He received his PhD from the University of Utah and was a skilled teacher, mentor, and researcher - touching the lives of numerous students and colleagues. Together with his wife Bonnie, he examined the social outcomes of children with developmental language disorders. Their research was instrumental in shaping our understanding of how language disorders impact social function, and their work continues to inform the treatment of countless children. His research was disseminated in over 70 publications and numerous presentations given throughout the world. He earned numerous professional accolades including Fellow and Honors of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (the highest awards given to a speech-language pathologist), the Karl G. Maeser Research and Creative Arts Award from BYU, the Frank R. Kleffner Clinical Career Award from the Utah Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the Benjamin Cluff Jr. Excellence in Educational Research Award, and the Editor's Award from the journal Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools for the outstanding article of 2015.
Martin was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served in numerous Church positions on the stake and ward level, ranging from the bishopric to the primary. He truly loved those he served and those with whom he served. He was always available to give a father's blessing, which was a constant source of comfort to his family.
Martin adored his extended family and spent many hours taking and organizing pictures of them, enjoying their company at every possible opportunity, and connecting generations through genealogical work. He loved and admired his siblings, Cory, Dianne, Kent, Jean, Kelly, Chester, Bob, and Connie. He was also a proud uncle to Christine, Amy, Christina, Angela, Danny, Bobby, Jamie, and James. He particularly loved his cousins, Georgia, Max, Judy, Joyce, Julie, David, Steven, Paul, Linda, Toby, and Mui, and spoke of them often. He also loved his aunts and uncles Akiko, Joe, and Mary Louise. He was grateful for and deeply loved the Fujiki, Sueoka, and Brinton sides of his family - not all of whom can be listed here but were no less in his heart.
We are confident that Martin is experiencing a joyous reunion in heaven with his mother (Sue), father (Ted), and brother Cory. We know he is also embracing the aunts, uncles and cousins who preceded him in returning to our Heavenly Father, particularly his Aunties Mickey, Sumiko, Grace, Lillian, Joanne, and Betty, as well as his dear cousin Linda. He was endlessly grateful for the love and support of his family on both sides of the veil.
Martin taught us through example what it means to be a true follower of Christ, and he never failed to make us feel valued. His constant strength, support, and love have been the greatest blessings of our lives, and we will miss him every moment of every day. No aspect of our lives from filing our taxes to watching movies at night will ever be the same. Our only comfort is the knowledge that we will see him again with our Heavenly Father, thanks to the redeeming sacrifice of our savior Jesus Christ.
Martin was ever conscientious and caring for the happiness and well-being of others. As such, he would want his memory honored in a manner that would not risk anyone's health or safety. With this in mind, funeral services will be shared via Zoom. Services will take place on Monday the 23rd of May 2022, at 11:00 am and can be accessed at the link below. Additionally, please share memories of Martin at https://martinfujikimemorial.fromabirdie.com/contribute. In lieu of flowers, please consider doing something kind for someone or donating to the humanitarian fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Martin would want all his friends and loved ones to treat themselves to their favorite dessert and a movie. Please see something good or it doesn't count. Also, treat yourself to concessions, no matter how ridiculously priced.
Zoom Link for Funeral Service: https://zoom.us/j/99870746507
Share a memory of Martin: https://martinfujikimemorial.fromabirdie.com/contribute
View All Photos
Add Photos to Memorial
43 Entries
Julie Washington
December 7, 2024
I am always late. Let´s start there. I am at the ASHA conference in Seattle and popped into the BYU open house to see if Bonnie and Martin were there. I was heartbroken to learn that Martin passed away in 2022. I am still shocked. I met Bonnie and Martin when I was a doctoral student in the late 1980s. Though we did not see each other often when our paths crossed at conferences we truly enjoyed each others company. He served as a mentor to my students along the way and I cherish my memories of him and the contributions he made to child language research. He will truly be missed! Prayers, blessings and condolences to Bonnie and his children for the loss of a gentle giant.
Carol Totten
March 14, 2023
Saddened beyond words to hear of this gentle soul´s passing. His presence, his voice, his words-soft and uplifting as a spring zephyr in the basement corridors of UNR´s old speech pathology clinic-inspired his students to emulate his interpersonal magic with their own clients and colleagues. Looking back, among his extraordinary gifts to those aspiring SLPs were lessons in respect for holistic intervention, for meticulous client histories, for the quiet power of empathy. Dr. Fujiki´s devotion to scientific rigor and stretching the boundaries of our knowledge of human communication seemed always perfectly balanced by his appreciation of family and the value of humor (inserted effortlessly while lecturing, to the class´ delight). His UNR students have gone forward with their careers and their lives, only now to be reminded of their privileged time with this remarkable man, whose gentle professionalism helped subtly shape who they became. We trust that Dr. Brinton and his children will know we share, in our private way, the pain of their loss, and we can only send our heartfelt wish that their joyous family memories will, like his wit and comforting wisdom, balance the harsh light of day with the soothing peace of eventide prayers.
Chris Dollaghan and Tom Campbell
August 19, 2022
We just learned of Martin's passing, and want to send our deepest sympathy to Bonnie and the rest of his family. Martin was truly an inspiration, not just for his thoughtful, creative and important contributions to the field, but also for his generosity, sincerity and kindness. We feel lucky to have known him.
Jan Tucker
July 23, 2022
I just read in the ASHA Leader magazine of the passing of Martin Fujiki. I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and to all who knew this incredibly kind and intelligent man. I had the pleasure of working with Martin through a consultant group; he made everyone feel valued and I will never forget him and the impact he had on others around him.
Very sincerely,
Jan Tucker
How you can show support
Alejandro Brice
July 20, 2022
It is with great sadness that I learned of Martin's passing. He was truly a gentle, kind, and sincere friend. I will truly miss you. Peace.
Julie Michaelis
May 29, 2022
I'm so sorry for your loss. Dr. Fujiki was a wonderful man and a great teacher. I'm so glad to have known him.
Barbara Taylor
May 28, 2022
I am grateful for the great example Martin and Bonnie were to me when Lee and I were their research assistants at BYU. I learned a great deal from them academically, emotionally, and spiritually. I also have many fond memories of their funny stories, and have retold their stories to my family when we needed a good laugh.
You will be missed Martin.
Love to you Bonnie and family
Randy Anderson
May 27, 2022
So sorry to hear about Martin...it has been so long since we were students working on our degrees together in the Dept. of Communication Disorders at the U of U. Best to his family, he will be missed!
Jill Johnson
May 26, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Fujiki. I am grateful to him for the hand he had in my professional path as my thesis advisor. He was always very kind and patient. My sincerest condolences to family and all who loved him.
Julia Guenzi Marostica Robinson
May 24, 2022
As a colleague of his Aunt Sumiko at the University of Utah she often spoke of Martin endearingly. She was very proud of his academic accomplishments. My condolences to his family for their loss.
Seth Jones
May 23, 2022
Dear Bonnie, Bob, & Amanda,
Martin was one of the best friends I could ask for in the Northridge 2nd ward. Martin's kind and gentle ways will be missed greatly, and he leaves behind a cherished legacy of love with those who had the honor of being his friends. I will miss that warm, welcoming smile most of all.
Aersta Acerson
May 23, 2022
I am so sad to hear of Dr. Fujiki's passing. He was such a kind, honest, and patient man. He was so gentle and caring with his students. He was always willing to talk and help us through school. I have fond memories of him from both undergrad and graduate school. He really loved his job, the profession, and contributed so much to it. I am so sorry for his family's loss and my thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.
Nicol D. Brown
May 23, 2022
I moved into Martin and Bonnie's neighborhood about 7 years ago. Our first real exposure to the Fujiki family was actually having Robert as the Primary chorister. He was AWESOME! When I met his parents I could see that he was an almost perfect mix of the two. The enthusiasm from his mother, the calming of his father, and the shared ability to genuinely love all those they come in contact with. While I did not know them well, I have observed them quite a bit over the last 7 years. Bonnie and Martin are people who cannot help but love and help others, lift and strengthen, nurture and support. I don't think it's even a conscious effort at this point, it just is who they are. And how can anything else come from a relationship that is so obviously filled with mutual respect and genuine admiration for the other? I have no doubt that Martin is continuing to quietly serve where he is and watching with a deep love and admiration as Bonnie works to figure out how to continue to serve with Martin with this new dynamic. I have no doubt that she will and that Martin will continue working right beside her and in his usual quiet way suggest things to her heart to help her, with a joke attached to lighten her heart and continue to contribute to the delight and joy that Bonnie has always exuded and which Martin delighted in basking in.
Cynthia
May 23, 2022
My words can not convey the deep loss that I feel with the passing of my dear friend Martin. He has blessed me and dozens of others with his service in our institute classes as a missionary and volunteer along with Bonnie. His sweet spirit, and encouragement, his life lessons he generously shared and videos he made for us, his help keeping me on track, and so much more, were beautiful blessings we all have enjoyed. I love his example of meekness, his constant striving for excellence in all he did-professionally, personally, spiritually, in family, and in service. The last thing I remember Martin saying was that he wanted to serve more. His life was service. He had such a great desire to do what God would have him do. He could speak in such a beautiful way to share hope and peace in Christ. He spoke of how doing right was not always easy, but we could do it. He was very encouraging. I am a much better person for knowing him! My love goes out to Bonnie who has influenced me greatly as well. They are truly an amazing team in all respects. Much love and prayers for comfort and peace for Bonnie and their family.
Lee Robinson
May 23, 2022
Mosiah 16:8
But there is a resurrection, therefore the grave hath no victory, and the sting of death is swallowed up in Christ.
Martin was one of the best. We will miss him. Love, Lee Robinson
Shelley Gray
May 23, 2022
What a leader in so many ways! What a life well lived! He set an example for us all.
Ursula Bohn
May 23, 2022
Dear Fujiki family,
Our hearts ache with yours at the passing of Martin. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with your during this difficult time. With Love, David and Ursula Bohn
Sarai (Dodge) Holbrook
May 23, 2022
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Dr. Fujiki had a profound impact on me and I will miss him.
Christy Fong
May 23, 2022
My deepest sympathies for the loss of an incredible, accomplished and kind man. To Bonnie, no words are adequate. You were truly the dynamic duo. Know that we are thinking of you, your children, Diane and Kent.
Noel Quist Hurst
May 23, 2022
I was so sad to hear of Dr. Fujiki's passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this time. I have many memories of Dr. Fujiki. I had the privilege of being a research assistant for him; additionally, he was also my thesis chair. My love for treating children with pragmatic communication deficits began with his example and research. I remember sitting in his office or Dr. Brinton's office discussing research ideas. He was always encouraging and calm. He encouraged me to figure things out for myself and then supported my learning. For some reason we moved a meeting to their home on one occasion and their home was peaceful and beautiful. It perfectly fit what I would have expected. What a wonderful man and example!
Lee Family
May 23, 2022
The love and care he would give to Jacob every Sunday and any day our family was sick or needing to brighten our day. We love you and will always think of you.
Barbara Culatta
May 23, 2022
I have such respect for gentle, soft men. And Martin epitomizes a man with those notable characteristics, among others. He was a giant of a man - a soft spoken giant. Martin exemplified all the qualities that one would want in a dear friend -- everything that I hold dear. I will miss him greatly.
I loved being in Martin´s presence. My blood pressure lowered, and my self-esteem increased. I felt appreciated, loved, and so very comfortable with him. He demonstrated concern for others. I am so very grateful that Martin was, and is, my good friend.
I admired Martin in his professional and family lives. I so very much enjoyed watching his sweet interactions with Bonnie, Amanda, Peter, and Bob. Martin was deeply loved by his family and colleagues. His love, warmth, personality, and being have made such a mark on the world!
Joan Laughton, PhD
May 23, 2022
Martin's gifts to professionals and students to help them understand the social values of language are immeasurable. We are grateful for his teachings and the tiny part we shared in his life well-lived. Condolences to his family.l
Chris Siebert
May 22, 2022
Martin and Bonnie are the kindest people you can meet. They have spent the last couple of years helping with special needs institute classes. The couple spent hours loving and serving these wonderful youth. Martin would always check the building to make sure it was safe for all to be in there. His big friendly smile and big heart radiated everywhere. Bonnie would make sure Cynthia (teacher) would receive any help in the room and with the lesson. A more Christlike couple could not exist. Thank you for your service Martin. You will be loved and missed dearly. Thank you to his family for raising a great man and a wonderful soul. Blessings being sent toward all the family. May peace be with you.
Laida Restrepo
May 22, 2022
What a great loss to the child language community. We are for ever grateful for his work on the social impact on children with language disorders. I know many students really appreciated as a teacher and mentor. My condolences to Bonnie and the rest of his family.
Norris Chappell Jr
May 22, 2022
I only met Martin once, at James and Angela`s wedding, and the one thing I remember all these years later is his warm sense of humor.
My deepest condolences to the Brinton and Fujiki families. May the grief of your unexpected loss be filled with comfort - and a sure knowledge that you are not alone.
It was amazing to read all of Martin´s many accomplishments!
Inga Ho
May 22, 2022
When I was accepted to the Communication Disorder bachelor´s program in the fall of 1995 as one of the first bilingual students from Asia, Dr. Fujiki and Dr. Brinton took me under their wings and made sure I did OK in school. Dr. Fujiki was also my thesis advisor when I was at the master´s program; his encouragement and guidance supported me through the graduate school.
Without Dr. Fujiki, I would not have been able to graduate and become a bilingual speech-language pathologist. I still use one of Dr. Fujiki´s instructions (a therapy strategy) in my daily work - smile, play along with children nonverbally and don´t demand them to talk when interacting with shy or non-verbal clients. Parents of my bilingual clients from early intervention frequently express their surprises on how well their kids interact with me even though I am a total stranger to them.
I want to attribute my accomplishments in my long career as a bilingual speech-language pathologist to Dr. Fujiki who taught me how to become a good and passionate professional. Dr. Fujiki is kind, gentle, intelligent and loves his job. Though he is no longer with us, Dr. Fujik´s legacy will live on and I will do my part to pass it on to those who I come to contact at my work.
Mary Anne Prater-Doty
May 22, 2022
I am so saddened to hear of Martin´s passing. I worked with Martin and Bonnie in the McKay School of Education at BYU. Martin served several years as department chair while I was Dean. He was (and still is) a dedicated professional with a very kind heart. Both of them were delightful to work with and were always so appreciative and thoughtful of others. I pray his family will be comforted in his absence. Our loss is heaven´s gain.
Terri Hobbs
May 22, 2022
I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Martin. Bonnie is my cousin and over the course of the past 40 years we have come together for many momentous life events. Martin was always there supporting Bonnie and her family. He never seemed to leave home without his camera. His love of family history and his belief in the importance of capturing a precious moment was always appreciated. We never left a family girl cousin get together without Martin coming downstairs and capturing the memory. And he always made me look the best!!! Copies of the best photos were always shared. We always felt welcome in their home, and we never once had to do a dish as Martin said that was his job after we left. I am certain that Bonnie had something to do in that task as well. Just another example of how they shared their time and life together. I am grateful I had the chance to get to know Martin over the years. He was special in so many ways, and our heart and Love go out to Bonnie and her family. Terri Hobbs
Ron Carroll
May 22, 2022
Martin and Bonnie Fujuki, son Bob, and daughter Amanda are one of the most wonderful families I have known during my lifetime. Each is accomplished in their vocation, but more importantly, they are a family of faith, love, and service. They were beloved neighbors and friends during our time in the Northridge 2nd Ward. Bonnie was an amazing Primary president, Young Women's leader, and my favorite all-time Sunday School teacher. I had the great privilege of serving with Martin for fifteen years in several Church assignments, including a bishopric, as stake executive secretaries, and as Martin's assistant when he served as our ward high priest group leader. Martin is a very capable man, intelligent, reliable, and devoted. However, what I loved about him most was his quiet humility, kindness, goodness, and understated strength. He had the childlike qualities of our Savior. Martin was an example to me in so many ways. He was always good-natured and easy to talk to, and I really enjoyed our time together. Today, I deeply miss Martin Fujiki, but I also know he will carry on with whatever the Good Lord asks him to do. He is "one of the noble and great ones," and no doubt was recently greeted with the words, "Well done, [thou] good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy lord." God bless you, dear Brother Martin, and your beautiful family. I love you and look forward to seeing you one day soon. Ron Carroll
MaryAnn Romski
May 22, 2022
I had the privilege to meet Martin in 2015 when we were both ASHA Honorees. He was a kind and gentle person who, along with Bonnie, made amazing contributions to our understanding of the social aspects of child language disorders. We visited each other´s campuses and would touch base at ASHA each year. I am sending my sincere condolences and prayers to Bonnie and his family on this heartbreaking loss.
Jean and Robert Schloss
May 21, 2022
Rarely does one spend almost 30 years next to a neighbor as kind and thoughtful as Martin Fujiki. Martin was the constant reminder of how one should treat others - with love, concern, a smile, compassion and an abundance of patience. A genuine follower of Jesus Christ, we saw Martin giving of his time to serve others. Martin often expressed his gratitude for the many blessings in his life, and he included everyone in the large circle of his life as a blessing. His thoughtfulness was often shared in short beautiful hand-written notes. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bonnie, Nathan, Bob and Amanda and their family. We hope to be blessed some day to be neighbors again.
Lisa Christensen
May 21, 2022
Dr. Fujiki was one of my favorite professors and my graduate research advisor. He helped me create and complete a different graduate school plan so I could graduate in a condensed timeline. Without him, I would not have been able to finish my graduate work and might not be an SLP today. He was a perfect example of a professional who changed the field with his research, but still cared enough to change the lives of individual students.
Martin Robinette
May 21, 2022
I have known and loved Bonnie and Martin for over 40 years, beginning in graduate school. Of Martin: never a judgmental or negative expression left his lips. Martin's love for and support of Bonnie was constant. Theirs was a remarkable dynamic research partnership. They are inseparable, "Bonnie and Martin." Perhaps the only husband and wife to each receive the Honors of the American Speech Language Hearing Association. The association's highest award, given to those who's contributions are of "such excellence that they have enhanced or altered the course of the professions."
Dear Bonnie, our love and prayers are with you at this time. May tender mercies comfort and bless you and your family.
Marty
Judy Montgomery
May 21, 2022
Martin was a dear friend and professional colleague for many years. We often met at conferences and ASHA events. I enjoyed his hospitality when I visited the campus, spoke to the faculty on special events, and particularly enjoyed Martin's special way of bringing together friends, students, family members and others- especially over a big dinner! I will always treasure his very fine professional writing- thank you for all the memories- and for sharing with all of us!! I am thinking of you too, Bonnie. You and Martin were an incredible pair; and contributed so much together! Such meaningful memories - I can't be sad when he made us all so happy.
Sarah Scott
May 21, 2022
My deepest sympathies at the loss of your beloved father and husband. He changed my life, encouraged me, believed in me, taught me, and gave me the opportunity to grow. I owe him so much. My fervent prayers that the Spirit will be your constant companion and comforter during this difficult time. His obituary was a beautiful representation of and tribute to his remarkable life.
Amy Ritter
May 21, 2022
Dr. Fujiki was a very important professor to me!! He was so kind, genuine, and caring. He absolutely wanted the best for each of his students. He was the Dept Chair and was crucial in helping me over some hurdles in order to graduate. I will always remember him and his kindness!!!
Jen Estep
May 21, 2022
Dr. Fujiki was a wonderful professor! I so enjoyed his classes during my time at BYU. So thankful for his contributions to the field of speech-language pathology. My deep sympathies to his family. God bless you.
Al Merkley
May 20, 2022
I had the pleasure of working with Martin at the McKay School of Ed at BYU. He was a quiet person in a meeting but when he spoke it was always a positive contribution to the discussion. He has been described by another colleague as the "most guileless person I know." I echo that thought and opinion. I grieve and celebrate with you, Bonnie, and your family and friends. He was beloved and will be missed.
Mike Shigihara
May 20, 2022
Very sorry for your profound loss. I have many great memories of Martin. We grew up together on our family farms which were 2 miles apart. We shared many family get together. We shared school experiences from elementary through high school. We both attended the University of Idaho. He was a great friend, he will be missed.
Gary Starr
May 20, 2022
Serving 2-3 days a week in the temple, has reinforced for me the truth that a loving Father in Heaven knows each of us in a perfect way. My faith in His perfect concern for each of us gives me great comfort that He indeed, will bring all things to our understanding the trials and challenges of life serve purposes. At the time, it can be difficult to understand or even accept what those purposes maybe. I am certain you and your family understand this and will gives comfort to you in this time of grieving. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Michelle Flowers
May 20, 2022
I'm so saddened by this news. Dr. Fujiki was one of my favorite professors and someone I deeply admired and respected. My thoughts are prayers are with his family.
Dr. Jo Naylor
May 20, 2022
Prayers for you at this time of sadness.
Showing 1 - 43 of 43 results
Make a Donation
in Martin Fujiki's name
How to support Martin's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Martin Fujiki's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more