Eugene William Martinson

Eugene William “Marty” Martinson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, peacefully entered heaven on September 8, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska. Born on September 19, 1936, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to William and Alice Martinson, Marty’s life was a tapestry woven with hard work, love, and unwavering dedication.

Marty’s childhood was rooted in the plains of North Dakota, with a formative chapter in Colville, Washington, where he graduated high school. He often delighted in sharing stories from those early years—tales of helping his mother on their family farm, shadowing his father on handyman projects around town, and the mischievous adventures that brought laughter and light to his youth.

Returning to North Dakota, Marty pursued higher education at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, focusing on business management. Simultaneously, he began his lifelong career with the J.C. Penney Company, starting humbly in the janitorial department before moving through the stock room and ultimately the shoe department. It was there that fate introduced him to Ardella Waltz, the love of his life. A simple shoe purchase blossomed into a heartfelt connection, leading to a double date and a courtship that culminated in their marriage on October 5, 1958—the same year Marty proudly graduated and entered J.C. Penney’s management trainee program.

Marty and Ardella were blessed with one daughter, Lori Lee Martinson, born July 22, 1959. Throughout his dedicated career, Marty’s leadership and problem-solving skills propelled the family across the western United States—including Kansas, California, Alaska, Oregon—before he retired as store manager in Tacoma, Washington. Known for his relentless work ethic and ability to inspire those around him, Marty brought out the best in everyone he met, leaving a legacy of integrity, perseverance, and encouragement.

The love Marty and Ardella shared was a true partnership—marked by unwavering support, deep affection, and shared dreams. Their home was filled with laughter, warmth, and the joy of family. In retirement, Marty reveled in traveling with Ardella in their beloved party bus, nurturing their garden and immaculate lawn, engaging in spirited games of pinochle and bridge, and being the ever-reliable handyman. He took immense pride in supporting his grandchildren, Carlina and Ross, and welcomed the newest light of the family, great-granddaughter Aria Simons.

Marty’s spirit lives on in his family: granddaughter Carlina Morris (and her husband Chris Stahnke), grandson Ross Simons, and great-granddaughter Aria Simons. Their memories, laughter, and love carry forward the remarkable man he was.

We find comfort in the promise of Revelation 21:4:

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

A celebration of Marty’s life will be held with an outdoor graveside service at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 6th, at Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 14951 Bothell Way NE, Seattle, WA 98155. All who knew and loved Marty are warmly invited to join in honoring a life so well lived.