Paul Martin

1937 - 2025

Paul Martin
September 3, 1937 - October 20, 2025

Paul Todd Martin, Jr. Age 88, was born September 3, 1937 in San Jose, California to Paul and Helen Martin. He passed away on October 20, 2025. He was the oldest of two boys.

Paul grew up in San Jose, with his younger brother Hugh. He graduated from James Lick High School in 1955. He earned his bachelor's degree from San Jose State University in 1960. After two years of active duty in the U.S. Navy, he returned to San Jose where he graduated with an MBA degree from the University of Santa Clara in 1964.

After working for a short time for the J.C, Penney Company and Del Monte Foods in sales, he was employed by Mobil Oil Corporation for 16 years, first in Phoenix, then Los Angeles and finishing in Spokane. He moved to Spokane with his first wife Elaine and daughter Cassie in 1975. He also owned three confectionery shops knows as the 'Sweet Treat Shoppes' for nine years in Spokane. One of Paul's greatest joys was when he adopted and helped raise his daughter Cassie.

In 1987 Paul and his first wife divorced after 18 years of marriage. In 1988 he graduated from Gonzaga University with a masters degree in counseling psychology. Working as a psychotherapist became Paul's passion. He strongly believed that each individual and family had their own unique story to tell and needed to be heard. During his 31 years as a psychotherapist he worked with hundreds of individuals, couples, and families as well as conducting divorce recovery groups in Port Angeles. He also worked part time with inmates at Clallam Bay Corrections Center for 16 years.

Paul started his practice in Eastern Washington working with clients in Spokane and later Moses Lake. he moved to Port Angeles in 1993, where he became affiliated with Lutheran Community Services. In that same year Paul met Sharon Ann McDonnell, who would be the love of his life. They met while on a Klahhanne club hike. He was immediately taken by her striking red hair and beautiful smile. She became a steady, calming influence he needed in his life. He affectionately called her "Sam."

After his retirement he continued his work as a volunteer doing grief counseling with Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County.

He was preceded in death by his father Dr. Paul Martin, Sr., Mother Helen and brother Hugh Kirkland Martin. He is survived by his wife Sharon, daughter Cassie, granddaughters Emma & Tessa, and great granddaughter, Elsa.