Vernon R. Martin

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Vernon R. Martin, a cherished husband, father, Papa, and friend. He departed this life on June 24, 2025, at Bartlett Regional Hospital in Juneau, Alaska, surrounded by his loving family. He was 69 years old.
Born in 1956 in Council, Idaho, to Everett Earl Martin and Winifred Mae Monteith, Vern's life was marked by adventure and love. His family moved to Ketchikan, Alaska, in 1971 via the ALCAN Highway. He attended Ketchikan High School from 1972 to 1973, where he enjoyed participating in sports and working on cars. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1974 to 1978, during which time he was stationed on Midway Island, Hawaii, and served aboard the USS Conquest as an Engineman Second Class. This period instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and love of the sea.
In Seattle, Washington, Vern met the love of his life, Jodie, and together they built a family. Their journey led them to Juneau in 1983, where Vern worked as the manager of the Breakwater Inn and at Harri Plumbing and Heating. In 1987, he and Jodie established M&M Services, earning a reputation as a skilled general contractor.
Vern was an avid outdoorsman; he found joy in fishing, hunting, and sharing his love of nature with his family. He was a gifted storyteller with a wonderful sense of humor. Even in the most difficult times, Vern's playful spirit could set others at ease. He was a proud father, though his most cherished role was as Papa; his dedication to his grandchildren and honorary grandchildren is unparalleled.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Jodie; their children, Josh (Tina) Martin, Jessica (Woody) Collins, and Sarah Martin; and his treasured grandchildren: Isabelle Martin, Woody Collins III, Samuel Struble, Margaret Struble, Nathaniel Collins, Mathias Struble, and Sophia Struble. Vern also leaves behind his beloved sisters, Caroline Coleman, Darlene Bagby, and Susan Martin of Washington. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Terry Martin and David Martin.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Territorial Sportsmen, Inc. Golden North Derby Fund, honoring Vern's love for the great outdoors and commitment to community.
Vern's legacy of love, hard work, and finding the lighter side of life continues to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of life is planned for later this summer; details will be shared soon.