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Martin Lyle Whitcomb
Martin Lyle Whitcomb
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Martin Whitcomb Obituary
Martin Lyle Whitcomb, 71, of Tracy, CA, passed away peacefully at home on December 21, 2024, after a courageous 20-month battle with glioblastoma. He faced this challenge with remarkable strength, grace, and an unwavering optimistic attitude, never losing his zest for life and always marching to his own drum. Born on March 14, 1953, in Ventura, CA, Martin was the first-born of four brothers, and the son of Ernest Whitcomb and Mary Reavis. His life was a testament to the importance of love, adventure, and meaningful connections.
Immediately after high school, Martin enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War. For most of his professional life, Martin worked as a landscaper by trade, and for several years, he owned and operated his own business. He took great pride in using native plants to create natural designs that turned the ordinary into something special, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and craftsmanship.
Martin is survived by his devoted wife of 37 years, Jane; daughters Kayla Mizuno (Bradley), Ellen Whitcomb, and Erin Smith (Zachary); grandson Raymond and granddaughter Ryan Mizuno; his brother Brian Whitcomb; and sister Alison Holtgrave. He was predeceased by his brothers Ricky and Alan.
Beyond his deep love for family, Martin had many passions: restoring old trucks, riding and caring for his horses, and diving deep into Native American history, classic literature, eclectic poetry, and history books that spanned the ages, from ancient times to the modern world. Over the past 15 years, Martin's greatest dedication was to ultra running. After completing his first ultra race in 2010, he became an avid competitor in 100-mile races across the western United States. His passion extended beyond personal achievement-he cherished supporting new ultra runners, often pacing them during races and helping to foster a large, close-knit running community. You could always spot Martin on the trail rockin' his sport kilt and barefoot Luna sandals. His spirit of camaraderie and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew him in the running world.
A memorial service celebrating Martin's life will be held on Saturday March 29th at Martin's home in Tracy, CA, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Martin's memory to the Glioblastoma Research Foundation (www.GBMRESEARCH.ORG).
Martin's love, his spirit, and his kindness will be missed by all who had the honor of crossing paths with him. His legacy lives on in every race he ran, every life he touched, and every heart he left with a little more love.
Peace and love, Martin. You're forever in our hearts.
15 Entries
Steve Breckenridge
January 23, 2025
Martin and I met in San Luis Obispo in the mid 1970's. I had landed a landscape job at a new hotel, while still in school at Cal Poly. I don't recall exactly how we met on that job. Then at a later time he came to work with me after I got the required contractor license. He had more former experience than I and made a huge contribution to whatever success we had doing commercial and residential jobs. At some point he and Jane were married and their three beautiful daughters were born. I have a lot of memories of those times, although the memories have faded, along with my advancing years. A number of years have passed since I last saw Martin and Jane and the girls. I will miss having the opportunity to once again hang out with him.
Lauren
January 21, 2025
I met Martin when we were both volunteering at an ultra in the Marin Headlands in 2008. He then paced me 50 miles at my first 100 mile race. Here we are at the finish of that event in August 2008. I´ll never forget Martin´s stories and beautiful spirit
Patty Drayer
January 20, 2025
Martin was such a a good friend and neighbor. He was such a positive and upbeat man. Always ready to help.
Also an animal lover. Loved Bandit his horse and many dogs through the years.
I will surely miss him.
Jake Massler
January 18, 2025
I met Martin on a group run at Diablo, and was instantly intrigued by the kilt wearing, sandal runner with the sunniest disposition ever.
I got to spend many more miles and hours that I cherish with an amazing human being who was genuinely interested in making humans better and happier.
He paced me at my first 200 and we spent 10 hours having the most profound conversation i had had after losing my father. For that simple act, I am forever grateful.
Rest in Power, Martin. And may peace be with your family.
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Maile Traci
January 15, 2025
I met Martin back in the 70´s. He was a good friend and neighbor. Martin was always full of life. Kind and gentle natured. Martin was a good man and I will always miss him. I´m grateful to have known him.
Carina Fryer
January 13, 2025
I met Martin through our love for trail running. We had the pleasure of sharing many adventures in the woods and along the trails. He was always so upbeat and generous with advice and encouragement. Martin was kind enough to pace me on my first 100K as well as my first, and only, 100 miler. Our trail adventures were mainly in Northern California, but also included Southern California as well as Arizona. He was greeted with big smiles and big hugs by many runners at every race. I was blessed to have had him for a friend. My condolences to his family.
Steve McCluhan
January 13, 2025
I first met Martin on Mount Diablo during a training run over ten years ago, It was a very hot day and he was carrying extra water in case he ran into unprepared hikers who were out of water. From the moment I met him I could tell he was a very special person. I was very curious to do my first 100 miler and he was eager to share his experience and wealth of information. He helped pace me to my first 100 mile finish. He was a nurturing soul that wanted to see new runners succeed. Over the miles he became a dear friend with his positivity and great stories that he would share, the many miles we ran felt short. Our whole family loved Martin and he will be missed dearly.
Cortney and Jared Pache
January 12, 2025
Martin was the best neighbor, always helpful, such a kind man and was so helpful, welcoming and kind. I´ll never forget his kind smile, riding on the trail with his beautiful paint horse and border collie. Condolences to the family , sending hugs. The Pache Family
Tim Guerra
January 12, 2025
I meet Martin on the trails. I believe every time I spoke with him it was out on the trails. You will be missed friend!
Jo Ann Gallagher
January 12, 2025
The Whitcomb's have been a big part of our lives for over 25 years. Martin was the most honest, uplifting, positive and caring man I have ever known. I will miss our conversations and will always have him in my head telling me that I can do it. He was always an inspiration. His friendship is a gem that I will always treasure. Love you Jane. You and your family are in our prayers and on our mind daily. Love you guys. Please give me a job for the day. Martin's Luna's have sprouted Alas. Fly free Martin
Alison Holtgrave
January 12, 2025
To my sister in law and daughter's I love you and remember him like he lived. And try to heal without doubt he will always be with you God Bless you and yours
Siobhan Taylor
January 12, 2025
I met Martin at one of my first ultras. I had a lot of self-doubt but Martin ran with me for a while, keeping my spirits up and encouraging me, diving into wonderful conversations about history and literature when I was starting to run out of steam. In the years that followed, we enjoyed time on the trails of Mt. Diablo, swapped book recommendations, and chatted about our favorite runners and events. He was a rare person- effortlessly warm and kind and it was an absolute pleasure to have known him. I´ll think of him anytime I´m on the trails we share. He will be very missed.
Heather West
January 12, 2025
I met Martin when I was probably 9 or 10. He was always an important part of our lives but my best memories with him were of course on a trail. A few years ago I got to do run/hike with just my Dad and Martin. The hours and stories shared on that day will always be some of my favorites. To say he was special is an understatement. He was a special soul. Always more interested in motivating others. He was an inspiration in the way he lived his life, loved his family and showed up for all of the people that were important to him. He will be missed.
Thomas Mally
January 12, 2025
Sorry for your loss. He is at peace now. You are welcome here anytime.
Dave Small
January 12, 2025
I was lucky enough to have met Martin when we both got out of the Navy in 1973. For those who met him later in his life you should know that Martin was always a constant supporter, genetically effervescent, a pillar of strength, and the most positive person you´d ever hope to meet. Martin spent his whole life striving to be a shaman; truth be told, Martin was born a shaman. He will be missed by many.
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