Sara Amber Martin

Sara was born in Portland and spent her childhood in Wilsonville where she attended local schools and found her love of sports and the outdoors. Throughout her childhood, Sara discovered that she loved any and all sports that kept her active. Sara found that she felt most at home while playing soccer. She began to practice when she was six years old on her brother’s team; she played all through high school and college, even playing on a competitive club team a few weeks ago. Sara excelled on the soccer field, not only was she an incredible athlete who shined in every position she played, but she was also an inspiration to her teammates. She is remembered as a tough player whose confidence, strength, and ferocity motivated others to be their best. Early in her high school years, Sara learned to be a strong and supportive teammate. This earned her a place as a team captain her senior year, where she was able to be an encouraging leader to many others.

While soccer was her favorite sport, Sara also excelled in many others, including softball, track, basketball, lacrosse, skiing, and snowboarding. From when she was young, she was physically fearless, always giving it her all. While Sara excelled at sports and stayed active throughout the year with all of the activities she loved, she also was supported by her two biggest fans, Mike and Nieda. Her parents rarely missed a game or goal of whichever sport she was playing that day. When Sara moved to college and started playing soccer, she became aware of just how dedicated her parents were when she was not able to see their faces in the crowd.

Playing sports was not the only joy Sara found in staying active, she also had a deep love of adventuring outdoors. She found great peace in hiking and exploring with her dogs in tow. She particularly enjoyed her time spent in the mountains surrounding Bend, with many days spent hiking Smith Rock and the surrounding hikes in the Sisters area. She was always pushing others to explore as well. She convinced her Mom to snowshoe to the top of the Glade Trail. After reaching the top they sled all the way down with their beloved dog Lexi chasing them and laughing all the way.

Sara shared her love of the outdoors with her many animals. All throughout her life, Sara deeply cared for animals bringing many home to give them a life filled with love. Even on difficult days, Sara could be lifted by spending time with her animals. She transitioned her passion into a successful career as a veterinary technician.

Sara lived her life fully; she was loving, and caring, and had a big heart. She enjoyed spending time with friends and being a good friend to others. Sara was stubborn from the day she was born, strong willed, brave, and shy. Sara will be remembered for her big heart and for being full of a lot of good.

She is survived and will be greatly missed by her parents Mike and Nieda Martin; brother, Chris (Melanie); niece, Emma Rose; Grandmother Pat Martin; a large extended family and many friends.