Tom C. Martella Sr.

Tom Claire Martella Sr., age 73, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born on January 21, 1952, in Hanford, California, to Art and Jane Martella. He attended Kit Carson Elementary School and Hanford High School, graduating in 1969. From an early age and throughout his life, Tom was a dedicated farmer, a calling he remained committed to until his final days.

On October 30, 1970, Tom married the love of his life, Shirley Dowd. Together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage and raised two sons, Jason and Tom Jr. Tom instilled in his sons a strong work ethic and a deep respect for farming-values he lived by every day. He was immensely proud of both of them.

In his early years, Tom enjoyed playing baseball and was a talented drummer, performing with the band Sunny Brook. He was also an avid racing enthusiast who followed sprint car and enduro racing and took great pride in watching his son participate in tractor pulls.

In 1990, Tom discovered a passion for collecting and restoring vintage bicycles, particularly pre-war Schwinn models. He devoted countless hours to his Santa Fe Bike Shop, where his craftsmanship and attention to detail were evident to all who visited.

Tom was known for his unmatched BBQ skills and his love of cooking for others. Most of all, he treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shirley (Dowd) Martella; his son Tom Martella Jr. and wife Alicia; grandchildren Kelsey Martella (Jared Souza), Kaeton Martella, Merribeth Martella, and Allison Martella-Azevedo (Stratton Azevedo); and his great-grandson, Declan Souza. He is also survived by his brothers Kenny Martella, Robin Martella (Bella), and Richard Martella (Terrie); sisters- and brothers-in-law Mary Dowd Johnston, Marty Dowd, Barbara Dowd Peters (Bob), Gary Dowd (Gina), and Patty Dowd Avila (Mike), along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his son Jason Martella; his parents, Art and Jane Martella; his sister Molly Martella; his in-laws Martin and Gerry Dowd; his Sister (in-law) Patty Martella; and his brother-in-law Mike Johnston.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Thomas Minor and Dr. Raj Reddy for decades of outstanding medical care, and to Compassionate Care Hospice Services for their care and guidance over the past several months.

A Celebration of Life honoring Tom will be held on January 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hanford Fraternal Hall, 1015 N. 10th Avenue, Hanford, CA 93230.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Hanford Education Foundation. Contributions may be made online at hanfordeducationfoundation47.wildapricot.org or by mail to Hanford Education Foundation, 300 W. 6th Street, Hanford, CA 93230.