Robert M. Martin

Bob Martin is resting peacefully after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his family and friends. Born in Grand Island, Nebraska to Milroy and Leona Martin, he entered the military after high school and proudly served his country in the Marines. After his military service he attended Hastings College in Hastings, NE where he met his late wife, Rose Brehm. They graduated in 1952 and began their careers as educators in Orleans, Nebraska, working summers in Yosemite. In 1955, they moved to Bakersfield and Bob began his 38-year career at Standard Junior High School where he taught Animal Study and Aerospace. He loved his job, sharing his interest in the outdoors with hundreds of students. Upon retirement, he traveled a bit, enjoying such sights as the migrating sandhill cranes in Nebraska. He also enjoyed following sports, especially CSUB Roadrunner basketball, anything Nebraska, and Baylor golf. He loved playing cards, especially Pinochle with his friends in Kern City.

As a father Dad was always ready to have fun, participate in games and sports, explain flora and fauna, and drive the family cab to music and ballet lessons. He had an acute sense of direction which came in handy because he loved to drive. As a grandpa, he had the time of his life being the "babysitter" and later following his grandchildren in their golfing activities and trips.

Bob's sense of humor was legendary. He always had a quip or joke ready and kept the mood light and cheerful. His annual Christmas letters were eagerly anticipated, wrapping a few pertinent details of family news in a package of humor. In recent years many were amused by his "snail mail" letters. These were filled with carefully selected clippings annotated with his special comments, and always sealed with a Nebraska Cornhuskers sticker.

Bob is survived by his son Dan of Bakersfield; daughter Deborah of Ithaca, NY; granddaughter Allison (Kyle) of Huntsville AL; grandson Bobby of San Antonio, TX; sister Joan of East Lansing, MI; and five nephews. His generosity and fun-loving spirit will be missed by all who knew him. After 21 years, he is now happily reunited in Heaven with Rose, the love of his life.

Viewing will be held on Monday, March 16th, from 4:00 to 8:00pm, and the memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 17th, at 10:00 am both at Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Road.