James A. Martin

1938 - 2025

James A. "Jack" Martin, 86, of Horseshoe Bay, Texas, passed away peacefully at sunrise on April 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on July 21, 1938, in San Antonio, Texas, Jack was the son of Alma and Jack Martin. He graduated from Burbank High School in the Class of 1956 and soon began his career as an ironworker with Local Union 66. A proud veteran, Jack served in the Texas Air National Guard and was honorably discharged in 1964 as a Staff Sergeant with the 182nd Fighter Interceptor Squadron.

A second-generation ironworker, Jack had the rare and meaningful opportunity to work alongside his father. Together, they served as Business Agents and General Organizers for Local 66. Their dedication to labor advocacy led them to the White House on several occasions, where they met with President Lyndon B. Johnson in the Oval Office to discuss critical labor issues.

In 1971, Jack graduated from the prestigious Harvard Trade Union Program, forming many enduring friendships. His leadership and service within the ironworking community culminated in his appointment as Seventh General Vice President of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers in 1986. By the time of his retirement in February 1999, he had risen to the position of Second General Vice President. Additionally, Jack served as President of the Ironworkers District Council of the State of Texas from 1986 until his retirement.

Throughout his distinguished career, Jack was dedicated to public service and community involvement. He served on numerous charitable, civic, and governmental boards, including the Board of Directors for San Antonio Goodwill Industries and the State Board for the March of Dimes. He also served as a board member for Wild Basin Preserve and was President of the Westlake High School Booster Club.

Jack was appointed by Governors Mark White and Ann Richards to the Board of Directors of the Lower Colorado River Authority, where he was elected Chairman in 1994. From 1992 to 1999, he served on the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, and in 1998 and 1999, he held the position of Deputy Chairman. In 1997, Governor George W. Bush appointed him to a statewide review committee on tax reform. He also contributed his time to the Llano County Appraisal Review Board and served as Chairman of the Colorado River Foundation and Endowment.

In recent years, Jack remained active with the Capitol Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, serving on its Executive Board. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to scouting, including achieving the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of 14, he was honored with the Silver Beaver Award, a distinction that held deep personal meaning.

An avid outdoorsman, Jack found great joy in hunting and fishing alongside friends, family, and colleagues. He also had a passion for travel and proudly visited all 50 states.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gene Martin, and his granddaughter, Shelby Martin.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marjorie Martin, and his former wife, Janice Martin, with whom he shared two children: Leslie Martin Ritter and Patrick Martin (Heather). He is also survived by his sister, Joan Martin Sartain (Joe); former son-in-law, Mark Ritter; four grandchildren: Christopher and Caroline Ritter, Julie Martin Bredahl (Peyton), and Cole Bandelman and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Walnut Methodist Church, located at 1153 Farm Road 3347, Round Mountain, TX 78663, at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The burial will be held at the Texas State Cemetery at a later date. Honorary pallbearers will be Cole Bandelman, Peyton Bredahl, Christopher Ritter, Mark Ritter, J.L. Boatright and Mike Gravette.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Scouting America Capitol Area Council #564 (www.capitolareascouting.org) or to a charity of your choice.